Fabrizio Cesana Takes Charge of Red Devils Ahead of CHAN, Focused on Youth Development
Khaled Hegazy
Dailysports's expert
With effect from January 11, 2025, Fabrizio Cesana has been formally named the new head coach of the Red Devils A' squad by the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT). The UEFA Pro-licensed Italian coach will also lead the U17 and U20 sides, giving him three important responsibilities in Congolese football.
Cesana’s appointment comes after the previous A’ team coach, Toussaint Rock Service, was dismissed due to not meeting the CAF’s qualification requirements, as the Confederation of African Football mandates a CAF A license or its equivalent for managers in charge of teams competing in the African Nations Championship (CHAN). Service was removed because he was unable to fulfill these conditions, even though he had qualified for the CHAN.
The technological structure in Congo is seen to be becoming more professionalized thanks to the Italian's qualifications. Cesana takes over the U20 squad after previously working with the U17s. His immediate challenge is to prepare the A’ team for the upcoming CHAN, with the long-term task of establishing a robust youth development program for the U17 and U20 teams, ensuring the future of Congolese football.
Fabrizio Cesana: A Mission to Develop Congolese Football
Cesana, 62, from Seregno, Italy, has been part of Congolese football since 2014. Cesana was first hired as Paolo Berrettini's assistant, but his enthusiasm and commitment propelled him to become the U17 team's captain and ultimately reorganize the nation's junior system. Congo had no formal youth academies prior to his arrival, but under his direction, the nation now oversees more than 290 young athletes, with facilities that can house children as young as 8.
Despite the challenges of working in an environment with limited resources, Cesana has proven to be a transformative figure in Congolese football, inspiring young players with his commitment. His work goes beyond coaching; he sees himself as a mentor and role model, which has fostered a deep connection with local players. Cesana’s efforts have brought impressive results, such as Congo’s first-ever qualification for the Africa Cup and reaching the final of the 2023 Viareggio Tournament.
His influence goes beyond football, as he stresses the need to understand and respect local culture to build trust and succeed. While he remains dedicated to his work in Congo, he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of returning to Italy in the future.
This hiring is a big step for the Congolese national teams, who want to compete at the top level and establish a long-term framework for nurturing talent.
