In an exclusive interview with Flashscore, he shares the mental toughness required to thrive at the top, the biggest hurdles of stepping up from the Championship, and the pride of representing DR Congo on the international stage.
Kachunga also discusses influential managers like David Wagner, his plans to stay in football through coaching and media, and his ventures into property investment - all while cherishing his role as a father and lifelong learner.
Looking back on your time in the Premier League with Huddersfield, can you recall a particular moment or achievement that left a lasting impression on you?
“It’s probably my first game in the Premier League, and winning it was a big moment, as well as scoring my first goal against Watford.”
What are some differences you’ve observed between playing in Germany and England, both on and off the pitch?
“In England, the game is quicker and more physical, and there’s a feeling that every team has some special players, making the league very strong. I’d say the English league is probably the best in the world. In Germany, it was more about tactics, with teams focusing heavily on strategy both on and off the pitch. Because the Premier League is so big and global, there’s a lot more media focus and attention around it. These are the biggest differences for me.”
In your opinion, what qualities are crucial for a striker or forward to excel at the top level? How do you handle the physical and mental demands of Premier League and Bundesliga football? What advice would you give young players aspiring to reach these heights?
“To be a top striker, goals are obviously essential - scoring is the main focus. In the Premier League, mental strength is also crucial to perform consistently week in, week out. For young strikers, I recommend working on finishing with both feet, staying strong, and developing hold-up play and linking up with teammates - these are important skills for the future.”
Having played in all four English professional leagues, would you say going from the Championship to the Premier League is the biggest jump? If so, what makes that step particularly demanding?
“Yes, I believe the biggest jump is from the Championship to the Premier League because of the quality of the teams you face week in, week out. For smaller clubs like Huddersfield, every game is crucial and challenging to pick up points, making it a significant step up.”
Throughout your career, you’ve experienced the ups and downs of promotion and relegation - how do you maintain motivation and focus during difficult periods like injuries or team setbacks?
“Fate has played a big role in my career and life, helping me through tough times. I’ve been fortunate to have a strong family and friends supporting me, which is vital. I also advise players to seek external help when needed, whether that’s a mentor or coach, especially during challenging times.”
Early in your career, you worked with notable managers such as David Wagner and Ralph Hasenhüttl - how did they influence your growth as a player? Are there other coaches or mentors who have played a key role in your development?
“Each manager I’ve worked with has had a different style, so it’s hard to pick one. David Wagner was instrumental, especially with our promotion to the Premier League. Claus-Dieter ‘Pele’ Wollitz, a German coach, gave me a lot of trust early on during my loan in Germany. I’ve learned from many coaches across my career.”
You’ve shared the field with many talented players - who stands out as the best teammate you’ve played with, and who posed the toughest challenge as an opponent?
“I’ve played with many good players. Early in my career, Mohamadou Idrissou and Igor De Camargo helped me a lot at Borussia Mönchengladbach. As for opponents, Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson were particularly challenging - playing against them was a tough test.”
What do you think of your season so far, as well as Cambridge’s? The club is currently just outside the play-offs in League Two - is that the aim, or are you still hoping for automatic promotion?
“We’ve had a good season so far, with a strong unbeaten run and currently in the play-offs. If we keep performing like this, we have a real chance of securing automatic promotion. That should be our goal, and we need to keep working hard to achieve it.”
You had the honour of representing DR Congo in 2017 - what did that experience mean to you personally and professionally?
“It was a huge moment in my career, both personally and for my family. Going to Kinshasa with my dad and seeing the fans at the airport was unforgettable. Wearing the shirt and playing for my country was an incredible experience I’ll never forget.”
What are your thoughts on the current DR Congo squad? How special would it be for the country to qualify for a World Cup for the first time since 1974?
“DR Congo now has a very good squad, and the organisation has improved a lot. Many talented players are choosing to represent the country, which shows in our recent performances. We are just one game away from qualifying for the World Cup, and that would be a massive achievement, giving the nation a huge boost.”
Looking beyond your playing career, have you considered coaching, management, or media work? What are your goals for the next chapter of your football journey?
“I’m currently working on my coaching badges, with the UEFA B licence already under my belt and aiming for the A licence soon. I’ve also done some media work and might consider that after my playing days. I hope to stay involved in football in some capacity and will see where my journey takes me.”
Outside of football, what hobbies and interests do you pursue? I heard you played tennis as a child - do you still follow the sport? Additionally, I understand you’re interested in property investment and development - can you tell us more about that?
“I enjoy watching various sports like tennis, basketball, and American football. It’s good to sometimes take a break from football and watch other sports. Regarding property, I started a company three or four years ago, buying and renting out houses. I really enjoy it and want to grow my portfolio. After my playing career, I plan to put more effort into property development, exploring new projects and learning from experts. On a personal note, I’m proud to be a father to a nearly two-year-old boy, and watching him grow and learn is a wonderful experience. I try to enjoy life, stay involved in football, and continually learn about different people and their journeys.”