Hervé Renard Brings Zambian Talents to Lille for Trial
New Lille OSC manager Hervé Renard is drawing on his deep ties to African football as he shapes his squad for the upcoming season. After already signing Ivorian defender Wilfried Kanon, the French tactician has now invited two promising young Zambian players to trial with the team during their pre-season training camp in Le Touquet.
The players in question are Patrick Ngoma, an 18-year-old striker from Red Arrows FC, and Patson Daka, a 16-year-old attacking midfielder currently with Nchanga Rangers. Both youngsters have already featured at youth international level and are regarded as rising stars in Zambian football.
Renard, a two-time Africa Cup of Nations winner with Zambia (2012) and Ivory Coast (2015), has long demonstrated a commitment to developing African talent. His decision to bring Ngoma and Daka in for assessment underlines his intent to identify and nurture promising players from the continent.
While the trials do not guarantee immediate contracts, the invitation offers a rare opportunity for both teenagers to experience European football at a high level. It also reflects Lille’s broader strategy of scouting beyond traditional markets for raw, untapped talent.
Should either player impress during the training camp, it could mark the beginning of a remarkable journey—from the pitches of Zambia to France’s top flight under the guidance of a coach who knows exactly what it takes to succeed with African footballers.
