Central African Republic head coach Raoul Savoy believes African countries need to do a better job of scouting and integrating young players into their national teams early in their careers, rather than waiting until they are fully developed.

In an exclusive interview with Brila Media, the Swiss coach who is currently in his third stint with the CAR having previously coached, emphasized the importance of early engagement.

“Between 15 and 16, you have to show them that you want them and they have to choose very soon,” Savoy stated. “But when you call players at 25 or 26, when they are just waiting for another call-up, just forget them because they will not be 100% with you.

Central African Republic’s coach Raoul Savoy (L) speaks to players. (Photo by ISSOUF SANOGO / AFP)

“Maybe one day they will forget you. One day they will say yes, one day no. If you are not fully involved when they are young, just forget it.”

The 51-year-old also advised young players to move on if their dream national team does not call them, instead of waiting indefinitely.

“My problem is when these players are never called up between 15-20, and they are still waiting. Waiting for what?

“If you start playing with the under-15 team, okay, you can keep going, no problem. But if they never call you and you want to be called up at 24 years-old, just forget it.

“It’s okay to dream, but you are losing time and the opportunity to represent your African country, which is something to be proud of.”