Born in Kinshasa, Zaire, he began his career as a youth player at Newcastle United.

Zola went on to have spells at Tranmere Rovers, Crewe Alexandra, Burton Albion and Aberdeen.

Zola began his career Newcastle United, and he spent a loan spell at Oldham Athletic before moving to Tranmere Rovers, where problems were discovered with his visa and he was unable to work (i.e. play) until a solution was reached.

In June 2008, he signed with League One club Crewe Alexandra for a transfer fee of £200,000.

On 18 June 2013, Zola signed a two-year deal with Scottish Premiership side Aberdeen.