Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
THE Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has been applauded for setting stringent requirements for coaches who want the national team job.
The Warriors coaching post fell vacant following the sacking of German gaffer Michael Nees last week.
Although Nees qualified Zimbabwe for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations finals set for Morocco in December, the German’s record in the World Cup qualifiers was poor, as he failed to win a single game in six outings.
ZIFA have now launched the hunt for a coach who will lead Zimbabwe at the AFCON finals and beyond.
The association has set stringent requirements for the job.
Only coaches with at least a CAF Pro or a UEFA Pro License will be considered.
Although the move has closed the door on most local coaches, the Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association (ZNNSA) has come in full support of ZIFA.
“As Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association, we are thrilled to see the ZIFA President, Nqobile Magwizi and his Executive Committee, taking bold steps to bring back the glory days of Zimbabwean football.
“The requirements for the national team coach are tough, but we believe that is exactly what is needed to shake things up and get our beloved Warriors flying high again,” ZNSSA president, Joseph Mutawu said.
He added: “This truly shows that ZIFA is looking for someone who can bring a winning mentality, tactical prowess and a passion for developing Zimbabwean football talent.
“It’s as clear as the blue sky, that, Magwizi and his team, are in search of a coach, who can bring a fresh perspective to achieve success in regional and international tournaments.”
ZIFA are also looking for a coach with at least five years experience in coaching national teams or elite clubs.
Demonstrable achievements at international tournaments like COSAFA and AFCON is also another requirement.
ZIFA have set October 30 as the deadline for applications.
The new coach will be in charge of Zimbabwe’s two high profile friendlies against former African champions Algeria 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar set for November.
“We love that Nqobile Magwizi is emphasising modern, data driven football philosophy.
“It is time that, our beloved Warriors team, was managed with the
latest strategies and technologies, as we head for Afcon 2025 tournament in Morocco.
“As ZNSSA, we are eager to see who ZIFA appoints as the Coach.
Bring on the new era of Zimbabwean football excellence. We rally the nation at large, to get behind our Warriors like never before,” said Mutawu.
