Community hub
0 subscribers7 pages, 0 posts
Recent from talks
All channels
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Contribute something
Welcome to the community hub built to collect knowledge and have discussions related to Offrande Zanzala.
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Offrande Zanzala
View on Wikipediafrom Wikipedia
Offrande Jolynold Serge Zanzala (born 13 December 1997) is a Congolese professional footballer who plays as a forward for National League North club Marine AFC.[3]
Key Information
Career
[edit]Zanzala emigrated with his family from the Republic of the Congo to Austria in 1999 due to the Second Republic of the Congo Civil War.[4]
Derby County
[edit]Aged eight, he moved with his family to England, and, aged 12, signed with the Derby County Academy.[4] He was named as the Under-21 Premier League Player of the Month in October 2015 after scoring four goals in three youth team matches.[5] On 23 January 2016, he joined League Two side Stevenage on a one-month loan.[6] He made his debut in the Football League later that day, playing the first 67 minutes of a draw with Barnet at Broadhall Way.[7] In February 2017, Zanzala signed a contract extension keeping him with the Rams until 2019.[8]
Zanzala joined National League club Chester on loan in October 2017.[9] He returned to Derby the following month after the expiry of his loan.[10] In January 2018 he was loaned out again, to Accrington Stanley in League Two.[11] He scored his first professional goal on 21 April 2018, an injury-time penalty after he had been fouled, in a 0–4 win at Wycombe Wanderers.[12]
Accrington Stanley
[edit]On 2 August 2018, Zanzala rejoined Accrington, this time on a permanent deal, signing a two-year contract for an undisclosed fee.[13] On 24 June 2020 it was announced Zanzala was leaving Accrington Stanley, having scored eight goals in his second season at the club.[14]
Crewe Alexandra
[edit]On 1 July 2020, Crewe Alexandra announced Zanzala had joined the club on a one-year deal with the option of a second year.[15] He made his Crewe debut in a 3–2 victory at Bolton Wanderers in an EFL Trophy group game on 8 September 2020.[16] He scored his only goal for Crewe on 10 November 2020 in an EFL Trophy group game against Shrewsbury Town.[17] On 2 January 2021 it was confirmed that Zanzala had been released by Crewe by mutual consent.[18]
Carlisle United
[edit]On 8 January 2021 he signed for Carlisle United.[19] At the end of the season, Zanzala was offered a new contract with the club.[20]
Barrow
[edit]On 7 June 2021, Zanzala joined Barrow on a two-year contract.[21] On 10 January 2022, Zanzala joined EFL League Two side Exeter City on loan for the remainder of the 2021–22 season.[22] Zanzala was part of the Exeter team that achieved promotion as League Two runners-up.[23]
On 11 June 2022, Zanzala had his contract terminated by mutual consent.[24]
Newport County
[edit]On 21 June 2022, Zanzala joined Newport County on a one-year contract.[25] He made his debut for Newport on 30 July 2022 in the starting line up for the 1–1 League Two draw against Sutton United.[26] After just two League Two matches Zanzala suffered a serious injury which ruled him out until December 2022.[27] He scored his first goal for Newport on 2 December 2022 on his return to the team as a second half substitute in the 2–1 League Two win against Crewe Alexandra.[28] In April 2023 Zanzala was again ruled out with another serious injury[29] and he did not return to the Newport team until March 2024.[30]
Zanzala was released by Newport County at the end of the 2023-24 season.[31]
AFC Fylde
[edit]On 22 July 2024, Zanzala joined National League side AFC Fylde on a one-year deal.[32] He departed the club by mutual consent on 3 February 2025.[33]
Torquay United
[edit]On 25 February 2025, Zanzala joined National League South side Torquay United.[34]
Chester
[edit]On Monday 30th June 2025, Zanzala joined National League North club Chester on a one-year deal.[35] Zanzala scored his first goal for Chester in a pre-season friendly against Glentoran. He made his official debut on 9th August against Peterborough Sports, where he made an assist allow Fin Roberts to score the opening goal of the game.
Personal life
[edit]Zanzala has three brothers he has nephews and nieces. He is a devout Christian who prays before every game.[36] He went to school with Kwame Thomas and the two are still good friends,[37] as they both began their pro careers with Derby.
Career statistics
[edit]- As of match played 1 August 2025
| Club | Season | Division | League | FA Cup | League Cup | Other[38] | Total | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | |||
| Derby County | 2015–16[39] | Championship | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2016–17 | Championship | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| 2017–18[40] | Championship | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Total | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Stevenage (loan) | 2015–16[39] | League Two | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Chester (loan) | 2017–18[40] | National League | 4 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 5 | 0 | |
| Accrington Stanley (loan) | 2017–18[40] | League One | 6 | 1 | — | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 1 | |
| Accrington Stanley | 2018–19[41] | League One | 27 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3[a] | 1 | 32 | 6 |
| 2019–20[42] | League One | 24 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4[a] | 2 | 28 | 8 | |
| Total | 51 | 10 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 3 | 60 | 14 | ||
| Crewe Alexandra | 2020–21[43] | League One | 5 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4[a] | 1 | 10 | 1 |
| Carlisle United | 2020–21[43] | League Two | 22 | 5 | — | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 22 | 5 | |
| Barrow | 2021–22[44] | League Two | 19 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 3[a] | 1 | 27 | 5 |
| Exeter City (loan) | 2021–22[45] | League Two | 15 | 2 | — | — | 0 | 0 | 15 | 2 | ||
| Newport County | 2022–23[46] | League Two | 15 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1[a] | 0 | 17 | 3 |
| 2023–24[47] | League One | 17 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 17 | 3 | |
| Total | 32 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 34 | 6 | ||
| AFC Fylde | 2024–25[48] | National League | 12 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 12 | 0 | |
| Torquay United F.C. | 2024–25[49] | National League South | 12 | 2 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 12 | 2 | |
| Chester | 2025–26 | National League North | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | |
| Career total | 181 | 29 | 6 | 2 | 4 | 0 | 15 | 5 | 206 | 36 | ||
Honours
[edit]Exeter City
- EFL League Two runner-up: 2021–22[50] (promoted)
Torquay United
- National League South runner-up: 2024–25[51] (Torquay lost playoff semi-final)
References
[edit]- ^ "Notification of shirt numbers: Crewe Alexandra" (PDF). English Football League. p. 25. Retrieved 20 September 2020.
- ^ a b "Offrande Zancala". 11v11.com. AFS Enterprises. Retrieved 22 August 2020.
- ^ "Marine sign Offrande Zanzala | Marine Football Club". 24 December 2025. Retrieved 26 December 2025.
- ^ a b "Offrande Zanzala: 'Derby Gave Me A Chance After I Felt My Dream Was Gone'". dcfc.co.uk. Retrieved 27 February 2016.
- ^ "Rams starlet Offrande Zanzala named Barclays U21 Premier League player of the month". Derby Telegraph. 13 November 2015. Retrieved 27 February 2016.
- ^ "Stevenage sign Deimantas Petravicius and Offrande Zanzala". BBC Sport. 23 January 2016. Retrieved 27 February 2016.
- ^ "Stevenage's winless streak stretched to seven games after they were held to a draw by Barnet in League Two". BBC Sport. 23 January 2016. Retrieved 27 February 2016.
- ^ "Offrande Zanzala Signs New Derby County Contract". dcfc.co.uk.
- ^ Powell, Dave (14 October 2017). "Derby County youngster Offrande Zanzala joins Chester FC on loan". The Chester Chronicle. Retrieved 12 January 2018.
- ^ Wakefield, Mark (16 November 2017). "Derby striker returns to club after loan spell". Derby Telegraph. Retrieved 12 January 2018.
- ^ "Offrande Zanzala: Accrington Stanley sign Derby striker and Akeel Francis". BBC Sport. 11 January 2018. Retrieved 12 January 2018.
- ^ "Wycombe Wanderers 0–4 Accrington Stanley". BBC Sport. 21 April 2018. Retrieved 1 July 2020.
- ^ "Offrande Zanzala: Derby County forward joins Accrington Stanley". BBC Sport. 2 August 2018. Retrieved 2 August 2018.
- ^ Accrington Stanley: Retained list, 24 June 2020/
- ^ Powell, Dave (1 July 2020). "Crewe Alex seal deal for striker Offrande Zanzala from Accrington Stanley". Cheshire Live. Retrieved 1 July 2020.
- ^ "Bolton Wanderers 2–3 Crewe Alexandra". Crewe Alexandra F.C. Retrieved 9 September 2020.
- ^ "Crewe 3–4 Shrewsbury". Crewe Alexandra F.C. Retrieved 11 November 2020.
- ^ "Zanzala Leaves Club By Mutual Consent". CreweAlex.net. 2 January 2020. Retrieved 4 January 2021.
- ^ "Carlisle sign ex-Crewe striker Zanzala". BBC Sport.
- ^ "CLUB: Retained and released list 20/21". www.carlisleunited.co.uk. 14 May 2021. Retrieved 7 June 2021.
- ^ "Offrande Zanzala Joins The Bluebirds". www.barrowafc.com. 7 June 2021.
- ^ "Offrande Zanzala joins Exeter City on loan". Barrow AFC. 10 January 2022. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
- ^ "Exeter City win promotion from League Two". BBC Sport. 26 April 2022. Retrieved 11 June 2022.
- ^ "Offrande Zanzala Leaves The Bluebirds". www.barrowafc.com. 11 June 2022.
- ^ "Offrande Zanzala becomes signing number six!". www.newport-county.co.uk. 21 June 2022.
- ^ Newport debut
- ^ Zanzala injury
- ^ Zanzala first Newport goal
- ^ Zanzala injured again
- ^ Zanzala Newport return again
- ^ "Omar Bogle leaves Newport County as Will Evans has contract extended". BBC Sport. 8 May 2024. Retrieved 8 May 2024.
- ^ "Offrande Zanzala joins the Coasters". www.afcfylde.co.uk. 22 July 2024. Retrieved 23 July 2024.
- ^ "Offrande Zanzala Leaves By Mutual Consent". afcfylde.co.uk. 3 February 2025. Retrieved 27 February 2025.
- ^ "Zanzala Signs For The Gulls". torquayunited.com. 25 February 2025. Retrieved 27 February 2025.
- ^ "Chester FC sign Offrande Zanzala!". chesterfc.com. 30 June 2025. Retrieved 30 June 2025.
- ^ Baines, Ollie (25 August 2016). "Surviving in the jungle away from war to joining exeter city Offrande Zanzala: "God is my everything"". Cross The Line. Archived from the original on 20 December 2016. Retrieved 15 December 2016.
- ^ Baines, Ollie (21 August 2016). "Coventry City and England U20 international, Kwame Thomas: "Jesus is the source of my success"". Cross The Line. Archived from the original on 20 December 2016. Retrieved 15 December 2016.
- ^ Includes other competitive competitions, including the Football League Trophy.
- ^ a b "Games played by Offrande Zanzala in 2015/2016". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 January 2015.
- ^ a b c "Games played by Offrande Zanzala in 2017/2018". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 July 2020.
- ^ "Games played by Offrande Zanzala in 2018/2019". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 July 2020.
- ^ "Games played by Offrande Zanzala in 2019/2020". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 July 2020.
- ^ a b "Games played by Offrande Zanzala in 2020/2021". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 20 November 2020.
- ^ "Congo - O. Zanzala - Profile with news, career statistics and history - Soccerway". int.soccerway.com. Retrieved 6 January 2022.
- ^ "Games played by Offrande Zanzala in 2021/2022". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 11 June 2022.
- ^ "Games played by Offrande Zanzala in 2022/2023". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 20 April 2023.
- ^ "Games played by Offrande Zanzala in 2023/2024". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 July 2020.
- ^ "Congo - O. Zanzala - Profile with news, career statistics and history - Soccerway". int.soccerway.com. Retrieved 6 January 2022.
- ^ "Offrande Zanzala | Football Stats | Torquay United | Age 28 | Soccer Base".
- ^ "Port Vale end Exeter's League two title hopes". BBC Sport. 7 May 2022. Retrieved 5 February 2023.
- ^ "Torquay United miss out on title despite Hemel win". BBC Sport. 26 April 2025. Retrieved 26 April 2025.
External links
[edit]- Offrande Zanzala at Soccerbase
- Offrande Zanzala at Soccerway
Offrande Zanzala
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Early life
Childhood in the Republic of the Congo
Offrande Zanzala was born on November 8, 1996, in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of the Congo.[5] He was the youngest of four sons to his parents, Serge, a journalist, and his mother. The family enjoyed a relatively affluent lifestyle, residing in the smart home of Zanzala's wealthy grandfather in the capital, which provided stability during his early years.[6] Zanzala's childhood was unremarkable and secure for its initial phase, spanning roughly the first two years of his life, as the family settled comfortably in Brazzaville amid everyday routines in the urban center.[6] This period allowed for a normal upbringing in a relatively prosperous household, shielded from broader national tensions until external conflicts intruded. The onset of the Second Republic of the Congo Civil War in 1997 dramatically altered daily life in Brazzaville, as fighting erupted between forces loyal to President Pascal Lissouba and rebels supporting Denis Sassou Nguesso over control of land and resources.[6] The conflict, which raged through 1999, brought indiscriminate violence to the capital, with rebel incursions leading to shootings, killings, and widespread disruption that shattered the sense of safety for families like Zanzala's. Immediate impacts included the breakdown of routine access to food, clean water, and shelter, forcing residents into survival mode amid the chaos.[6] The escalating violence ultimately compelled Zanzala's family to flee the city.Immigration to the United Kingdom
At the age of three, Offrande Zanzala's life was upended by the Second Republic of the Congo Civil War, which erupted in 1997 and led to widespread violence, including the deaths of tens of thousands and the displacement of many more.[6] His family, previously affluent, fled their home in Brazzaville on foot, seeking safety amid rebel advances.[7] They hid in the jungle for months, enduring treacherous conditions such as walking miles daily and consuming bush meat for sustenance while evading gunfire and rebel forces. After emerging from hiding, the family traveled approximately 3,000 km to Lagos, Nigeria, before flying to Europe.[6] During this perilous escape, the family became separated from extended relatives, with Zanzala later recalling the constant fear of being shot or going missing, an experience that left lasting trauma.[8][9] Zanzala's father, Serge, had initially traveled alone to Austria to arrange refuge, establishing a temporary home in Vienna ahead of the family's reunion.[10] The rest of the family joined him there, living in Austria for five years where they faced additional challenges, including racism that strained their adjustment.[9] In 2004, when Zanzala was eight years old, the family relocated to the United Kingdom, seeking better opportunities and stability.[11] They settled in Nottingham, England, where they underwent the asylum process and were eventually granted refugee status, allowing them to rebuild their lives.[8][6] Upon arrival in Nottingham, the family encountered significant initial hardships, including language barriers that hindered daily communication and integration into British society.[6] Cultural adjustments proved equally demanding, as the shift from war-torn Congo and temporary life in Austria to the routines of urban England required adapting to new social norms, education systems, and community structures.[8] Despite these obstacles, Zanzala entered local schooling, which provided a foundation for stability and helped mitigate the ongoing effects of displacement.[9] Around the ages of 10 to 12, Zanzala began his first exposure to organized football through informal park games and Sunday League matches in the Nottingham area, marking an early step toward channeling his energy into the sport amid his family's adaptation.[8] This period of settlement ultimately offered the family a sense of security, though the immigration ordeal continued to shape Zanzala's resilience and outlook.[11]Club career
Derby County
Offrande Zanzala joined the Derby County academy in 2009 at the age of 12, following successful local trials in the East Midlands after his family's relocation to the United Kingdom.[11] His immigration from the Republic of the Congo provided additional motivation to pursue football as a pathway to stability.[11] Zanzala progressed steadily through the club's youth ranks, featuring prominently for the under-18 side before signing his first professional contract in March 2015, a two-and-a-half-year deal that integrated him into the development squad.[12] As a forward, he developed his physical attributes, growing to 6 feet tall and earning recognition for his pace, power, and goal-scoring instinct, which made him a regular marksman in academy matches.[13] During this period, he won the League Football Education Donald Bell Award in 2014 for his contributions to community work alongside his on-pitch performances, and later the Barclays Under-21 Premier League Player of the Month for October 2015 after scoring four goals in three games.[14][7] In January 2016, Zanzala joined Stevenage on a youth loan, making two appearances in League Two without scoring.[15] Despite his success at youth level, Zanzala had no senior competitive appearances for Derby County's first team.[16] However, he gained limited exposure through several training sessions with the senior squad and participation in pre-season activities, including sessions ahead of the club's Tenerife training camp in 2017 and friendlies with development teams. He also had a short loan spell at Chester FC in 2017-18.[17][18][19][1] Zanzala departed Derby County in August 2018 when he transferred to Accrington Stanley for an undisclosed fee, concluding a nine-year association with the club that laid the foundation for his professional career.[20]Accrington Stanley
Zanzala joined Accrington Stanley on an initial loan from Derby County on 11 January 2018, arriving as a promising centre-forward seeking regular senior minutes following youth experience at Pride Park.[21] The deal ran until the end of the 2017–18 season, during which he made six appearances in League Two, scoring his first professional goal, a penalty, in a 4–0 victory over Wycombe Wanderers on 21 April 2018.[22] His contributions, including strong hold-up play as a target man, aligned with Accrington's direct style, aiding their eventual League Two title win and ascent to League One.[23] Following the successful loan, Zanzala signed permanently with Accrington Stanley on 2 August 2018 for an undisclosed fee, agreeing to a two-year contract that provided stability for his development.[20] In the 2018–19 League One season, his debut full campaign, he featured in 27 league matches, netting four goals while adapting to the higher division's demands as a physical forward who excelled in linking play and contesting high balls.[24] The following year, 2019–20, saw improved output with eight goals across 28 appearances, including notable strikes against teams like Rochdale, as he solidified his role in Stanley's survival efforts amid a competitive League One table.[25] Zanzala's time at Accrington marked his breakthrough into consistent senior football, leveraging his 1.85 m frame for a target man role that complemented the team's promotion ambitions and subsequent consolidation.[4]Crewe Alexandra
In July 2020, Offrande Zanzala joined Crewe Alexandra from Accrington Stanley on a free transfer, signing an initial one-year contract with an option for an additional year.[25][26] The move represented a promotion to League One following Crewe's advancement from League Two, where Zanzala had established himself as a physical, target-man forward during his time at Accrington.[25] During the 2020–21 season, Zanzala made 10 appearances across all competitions for Crewe, scoring one goal in the EFL Trophy against Shrewsbury Town on 10 November 2020.[27] In League One, he featured in five matches, primarily as a substitute, accumulating 116 minutes without finding the net.[27] His debut came in a 3–2 league victory over Northampton Town on 12 December 2020, where he entered as a late substitute.[28] Despite showing promise in pre-season friendlies, including a goal in a 4–0 win over Bala Town, Zanzala struggled to secure consistent starts amid strong competition from established forwards like Chris Porter and Mikael Mandron.[29] Zanzala's limited opportunities were influenced by Crewe's tactical setup under manager David Artell, who favored a fluid attacking system that prioritized pace and versatility over Zanzala's robust, hold-up play.[30] No major injuries were reported, but the depth in the forward line and Artell's preference for rotating options in a competitive League One campaign restricted his involvement.[27] On 2 January 2021, after just six months and 10 appearances, Crewe Alexandra and Zanzala mutually terminated his contract, allowing him to seek regular playing time elsewhere.[28] The early departure highlighted the challenges of adapting to higher-level football, though it paved the way for a subsequent move to Carlisle United.[28]Carlisle United
Offrande Zanzala signed for Carlisle United on 8 January 2021, agreeing a contract until the end of the 2020–21 season after being released by Crewe Alexandra.[31] The move came midway through a League Two campaign heavily disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with fixtures played without spectators and ongoing health protocols affecting training and preparation. Zanzala quickly integrated into the squad, making his debut as a substitute in a 1–0 win over Leyton Orient three days later.[28] Over the remainder of the season, he featured in 22 league matches, starting 15 and scoring 6 goals, providing a vital attacking option for manager Chris Beech as Carlisle aimed to climb the table. His contributions included a run of form in March, where he netted in three consecutive games: a last-gasp equalizer against Grimsby Town in a 1–1 draw, a brace in a 3–1 victory over Bradford City that ended an eight-match winless streak, and the opener in a 1–1 stalemate at Mansfield Town.[32][33][34] He added further goals, including one in April against Southend United in a 2–0 away win.[35] Despite his impact from the bench in several outings, Zanzala's limited starts reflected the competitive forward line at Brunton Park. In June 2021, following the conclusion of the season, he departed Carlisle to join local rivals Barrow on a two-year contract, ending a productive six-month spell that endeared him to supporters.[36]Barrow
Offrande Zanzala joined Barrow on a free transfer from Carlisle United on 7 June 2021, signing a two-year contract as the first acquisition under manager Mark Cooper.[37] Following a promising goal-scoring form at Carlisle, where he netted five times in 22 appearances, Zanzala provided attacking depth to Barrow's League Two squad.[38] During the 2021–22 season, Zanzala established himself as a consistent performer for Barrow, making 27 appearances across all competitions and scoring five goals before the winter transfer window.[39] His contributions included notable strikes in League Two matches, helping to stabilize the team's forward line amid a challenging campaign affected by fixture disruptions and squad adjustments. On 10 January 2022, he was loaned to Exeter City for the remainder of the season, where he featured in 15 League Two appearances, scoring two goals, including one on his debut against Scunthorpe United.[40][41] Zanzala's loan spell at Exeter proved pivotal, as he contributed to their promotion to League One via the playoffs, appearing in key matches during the run-in.[11] Returning to Barrow at the end of the season, his overall impact during the stint highlighted his versatility and reliability as a target man. In May 2022, Barrow mutually agreed to cancel his contract, allowing him to pursue opportunities elsewhere after a productive year with the club.[42]Newport County
Offrande Zanzala joined Newport County on a free transfer from Barrow on 21 June 2022, signing a one-year contract ahead of the 2022–23 League Two season.[43] The move followed a successful loan spell at Exeter City during the second half of the 2021–22 campaign, where he contributed to their promotion from League Two while on loan from Barrow.[44] Zanzala's time at Newport was severely hampered by injuries, limiting him to just 34 appearances and 6 goals across all competitions over two seasons. In his debut season (2022–23), he made 20 appearances and scored 3 goals before suffering a serious knee injury in April 2023 that required surgery and sidelined him for the remainder of the campaign as well as the early part of the following season.[45] Despite the setbacks, his contract was extended into the 2023–24 season.[46] The 2023–24 season brought further fitness struggles, with Zanzala managing only 14 appearances and 2 goals after returning to action in February 2024, including a brace in a 3–1 win over Harrogate Town on 27 February 2024.[47] His persistent injury issues contrasted sharply with the more consistent form he had shown earlier in his career at clubs like Barrow. Newport County released Zanzala at the end of the season on 8 May 2024.[48]AFC Fylde
Offrande Zanzala signed for AFC Fylde on a free transfer on 22 July 2024, agreeing to a one-year contract ahead of the 2024–25 National League season.[49][50] The move reunited him with head coach Chris Beech, under whom he had previously played at Barrow, and was intended to bolster the club's attacking depth during a challenging campaign marked by a relegation battle.[51] During the 2024–25 season, Zanzala made 14 appearances across all competitions for Fylde, primarily as a substitute, but did not score any goals.[52][53] As an experienced forward, he contributed to the team's early efforts to avoid relegation, drawing on his prior lower-league expertise despite a history of injuries that had limited his opportunities at Newport County.[54] Fylde's struggles culminated in relegation to the National League North at the end of the season. Zanzala's contract was terminated by mutual consent on 3 February 2025, with the club citing limited starting opportunities and ongoing restructuring as factors in the decision.[52]Torquay United
In February 2025, Offrande Zanzala joined Torquay United on a free transfer from AFC Fylde, signing a short-term contract until the end of the 2024–25 season.[55][56] The move came after his departure from Fylde by mutual consent earlier that month, allowing him to build on recent National League experience in a lower division. Zanzala made 12 appearances for Torquay in the National League South, scoring 2 goals across 669 minutes of play, where his 6-foot frame provided a strong physical presence in the attack.[57][58] His efforts contributed to the team's promotion push, helping secure a second-place finish with 89 points from 46 matches.[59] Zanzala adapted to the part-time football environment at Torquay, balancing training and matches with other commitments typical of sixth-tier clubs. He was released at the end of the season in June 2025 as part of a squad rebuild ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.[60][61]Chester
On 30 June 2025, Offrande Zanzala signed a one-year contract with National League North club Chester FC, joining the Deva Stadium outfit as a free agent following short-term spells at other lower-league teams earlier in the year.[1] The 28-year-old Congolese striker brought extensive experience from over 150 EFL appearances across multiple clubs, positioning him as a key addition to bolster Chester's attacking options under manager Calum McIntyre.[62] Zanzala marked his arrival with a goal during pre-season, scoring a volleyed finish in a 1-1 friendly draw against Glentoran on 26 July 2025.[63] In the 2025-26 season, he has made 6 appearances by early November, netting 1 goal—all of which came at home—while establishing himself as a veteran leader in the forward line, mentoring younger players and contributing to team organization through his physical presence and hold-up play.[4] His contract runs until June 2026, with discussions for an extension likely contingent on sustained form and Chester's promotion push in the division.[4]Personal life
Family background
Offrande Zanzala was born into a family of four sons in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, where his father, Serge Zanzala, worked as a journalist.[10] During the Congolese civil war in 1997, Serge separated from his wife, Pascale, and their sons to travel ahead to Austria, where he sought to establish a safer environment for the family.[10] This strategic move allowed him to prepare documentation and opportunities, reflecting his proactive role in navigating the family's crisis amid the violence.[10] Pascale took primary responsibility for the immediate safety of her four young sons, including the one-year-old Offrande and his three older brothers, by leading their escape from Brazzaville into the surrounding jungle.[10][6] Facing gunfire, scarcity, and the constant threat of rebel attacks, she coordinated their survival for months before the group, joined by aunts, grandparents, and other relatives, traveled approximately 3,000 kilometers to Lagos, Nigeria, to secure visas.[6] Her leadership during this harrowing period underscored the family's unity, with the brothers providing mutual support as they endured the hardships together.[10][6] The family reunited with Serge in Vienna, Austria, where they lived for several years, adapting to a new culture while the brothers, including Offrande, began playing football recreationally as a form of bonding and normalcy.[10][6] In 2004, when Offrande was eight, the Zanzalas relocated to the Nottingham area in England, marking the final stage of their reunification and settlement.[10] The three older brothers continued to offer companionship and encouragement during the early challenges of UK life, such as language barriers and cultural adjustment, helping to foster a close-knit dynamic.[6] This familial structure and shared ordeal have profoundly shaped Zanzala's grounded personality, instilling a sense of resilience and perseverance.[10] He has credited the experience with forming his character, noting that it created a family bond centered on mutual support and gratitude, which keeps him humble despite professional successes.[10][6]Religious faith and personal motivations
Offrande Zanzala is a practising Christian whose faith forms a cornerstone of his personal identity and professional drive. He has described his religious beliefs as having been present for a long time, providing him with a sense of divine protection and purpose amid the challenges of immigration from the Republic of the Congo to Austria and later England as a child.[64][10] Zanzala credits his Christian faith with enabling his survival and the opportunities he has received in life, stating in a 2021 interview that "God has always been at the centre of my heart" and that "without God I wouldn’t be here today." He views his journey in football as a divine calling, positioning himself as a vessel through which God works, and emphasizes that his faith has been a miracle blessing both his life and his family's.[65] A key aspect of his beliefs is the conviction that "everything happens for a reason," a philosophy he has publicly shared as integral to processing hardships and maintaining optimism. This outlook, rooted in his Christianity, fosters resilience forged from early experiences of displacement due to war, transforming potential anger into determination and passion for his career.[65] Zanzala's faith motivates him with profound gratitude for his current position, driving him to strive for excellence—such as aiming to score 15 goals in a season—and to inspire others facing adversity through his story of perseverance. He incorporates his beliefs into daily routines, praying before and after matches in hopes of outcomes aligned with God's will, and seeks to integrate into local church communities at each club.[65][64]Career statistics
Club appearances and goals
Offrande Zanzala has recorded 40 goals in 210 club appearances across all competitions during his professional career as of 15 November 2025.[66][3] The following table summarizes his appearances and goals by season and club, broken down by league and cup competitions where applicable. Data encompasses senior appearances only.| Season | Club | Competition | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015–16 | Stevenage | League Two | 2 | 0 |
| 2015–16 | Stevenage | FA Cup / EFL Cup | 0 | 0 |
| 2017–18 | Chester | National League North | 4 | 0 |
| 2017–18 | Chester | FA Cup / Other | 0 | 0 |
| 2017–18 | Accrington Stanley | League Two | 6 | 1 |
| 2017–18 | Accrington Stanley | FA Cup / EFL Cup / Other | 0 | 0 |
| 2018–19 | Accrington Stanley | League One | 28 | 5 |
| 2018–19 | Accrington Stanley | FA Cup / EFL Cup / Other | 3 | 1 |
| 2019–20 | Accrington Stanley | League One | 23 | 5 |
| 2019–20 | Accrington Stanley | FA Cup / EFL Cup / Other | 6 | 3 |
| 2020–21 | Crewe Alexandra | League One | 5 | 0 |
| 2020–21 | Crewe Alexandra | FA Cup / EFL Cup / Other | 5 | 1 |
| 2020–21 | Carlisle United | League Two | 22 | 6 |
| 2020–21 | Carlisle United | FA Cup / EFL Cup | 2 | 0 |
| 2021–22 | Barrow | League Two | 19 | 3 |
| 2021–22 | Barrow | FA Cup / EFL Cup / Other | 4 | 2 |
| 2021–22 | Exeter City | League Two | 15 | 2 |
| 2021–22 | Exeter City | FA Cup / EFL Cup / Other | 0 | 0 |
| 2022–23 | Newport County | League Two | 15 | 3 |
| 2022–23 | Newport County | EFL Cup | 1 | 0 |
| 2023–24 | Newport County | League Two | 17 | 3 |
| 2023–24 | Newport County | FA Cup / EFL Cup | 2 | 1 |
| 2024–25 | AFC Fylde | National League | 12 | 0 |
| 2024–25 | AFC Fylde | FA Cup | 3 | 1 |
| 2024–25 | Torquay United | National League South | 8 | 2 |
| 2024–25 | Torquay United | FA Cup / Other | 1 | 0 |
| 2025–26 | Chester | National League North | 6 | 1 |
| 2025–26 | Chester | FA Cup | 1 | 0 |
| Club | Total Appearances | Total Goals |
|---|---|---|
| Stevenage | 2 | 0 |
| Chester (2017–18 loan) | 4 | 0 |
| Accrington Stanley | 66 | 15 |
| Crewe Alexandra | 10 | 1 |
| Carlisle United | 24 | 6 |
| Barrow | 23 | 5 |
| Exeter City | 15 | 2 |
| Newport County | 35 | 7 |
| AFC Fylde | 15 | 1 |
| Torquay United | 9 | 2 |
| Chester (2025–) | 7 | 1 |
International appearances (if applicable)
Offrande Zanzala is eligible to represent the Republic of the Congo at the international level due to his birth in Brazzaville.[4] As of November 2025, he has earned no senior caps for the national team and has not scored any international goals.[2] No confirmed youth international appearances or call-ups have been documented in his career.[4] Zanzala's professional trajectory has centered on club football in England since joining Derby County's academy at age 12, with no reported interest from the Congolese Football Federation.[11]Honours
Club honours
Offrande Zanzala contributed to Accrington Stanley's promotion from EFL League Two to League One as play-off winners during the 2017–18 season, having joined the club on loan from Derby County in January 2018 and making appearances in the latter part of the campaign.[4][3] Similarly, while on loan from Barrow to Exeter City in the second half of the 2021–22 season, Zanzala helped the Grecians secure promotion to League One by finishing second in the regular season and winning the play-offs, where he featured in 15 league matches and scored two goals.[68][44] No other major team honours have been recorded during his stints with clubs such as Derby County, Crewe Alexandra, Carlisle United, Barrow, Newport County, AFC Fylde, Torquay United, or Chester as of the 2025–26 season.[4][69]Individual awards
- Donald Bell Award (2014): Awarded by League Football Education to Zanzala for his personal development and contributions in youth football while at Derby County.[14]
- Barclays Under-21 Premier League Player of the Month (October 2015): Honored for his standout performances with Derby County U21 in the Premier League 2 during October 2015, where he scored four goals in three matches.[18]
- PFA Community Champion Award (2024): Presented by the Professional Footballers' Association to Zanzala for his off-field community engagement and charitable efforts while playing for Newport County.[70]