Zambia’s Nathan Sinkala Joins Grasshoppers Zurich on Loan
Zambian international Nathan Sinkala has completed a six-month loan move to Swiss side Grasshoppers Zurich, the club has confirmed.
The 23-year-old midfielder arrives as a direct replacement for Congolese player Toko Nzuzi, who recently secured a move to English Championship outfit Brighton & Hove Albion.
“We are delighted to welcome Sinkala in the defensive midfield position, which will allow us to replace Toko who has left for England,” said Grasshoppers head coach Michael Skibbe on the club’s official website.
Sinkala, a key member of Zambia’s 2012 Africa Cup of Nations-winning squad, joins the Swiss Super League runners-up at a crucial point in their European campaign. His arrival comes just in time for the club’s Champions League qualification campaign, with Grasshoppers set to enter the preliminary rounds between 22 and 24 July.
The move to Zurich follows a brief spell in France, where Sinkala spent six months on loan with Ligue 1 side FC Sochaux. Despite the Zambian’s efforts, the club was relegated to Ligue 2 at the end of the season.
Sinkala is expected to provide much-needed stability in the centre of midfield, a role vacated by Nzuzi’s departure. His combination of physical presence and international experience is seen as a significant asset for Grasshoppers as they aim to return to the Swiss summit and make an impact on the European stage.
The move also offers Sinkala the opportunity to make his debut in the UEFA Champions League, marking another milestone in his burgeoning career.
