Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
HIGHLANDERS Football Club has paid a glowing tribute to former head coach Roy Barreto, describing him as a visionary leader whose influence laid the foundation for one of the most successful eras in the club’s history.
Barreto, who died on Monday at the age of 72 after a long illness, guided Bosso to some of their greatest achievements and remains one of the club’s most decorated coaches.
In a statement, Highlanders said the football legend’s contribution extended far beyond the trophies he won, saying he transformed the club through his leadership, professionalism and commitment to attractive, attacking football.
“It is with profound sadness that Highlanders Football Club mourns the passing of our former head coach, Roy Barreto.
“Coach Barreto was more than a successful coach — he was a visionary leader who laid the foundation for one of the greatest eras in the club’s history. His greatest achievements came with Bosso, where he assembled and nurtured one of the most formidable teams Zimbabwe has ever seen,” the club said.
Highlanders said under Barreto’s guidance, Bosso became synonymous with discipline, tactical excellence, professionalism and an unrelenting winning mentality.
The club recalled that Barreto led Highlanders to a memorable league and cup double in 1990 before guiding the Bulawayo giants to the inaugural Premier Soccer League title in 1993.
“In 1990, he guided Bosso to a historic league and cup double, a remarkable achievement that cemented the club’s status as the dominant force in Zimbabwean football. He continued to build on that success, leading Highlanders to the inaugural Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League championship in 1993.
“These triumphs remain defining moments in our club’s proud history and stand as a testament to his outstanding leadership, football intelligence and unwavering commitment to excellence,” the statement read.
The club said Barreto’s legacy would continue to inspire generations of players, coaches and supporters.
“Beyond the trophies, Coach Barreto inspired generations of players, coaches and supporters. His passion for the game, meticulous attention to detail and belief in attractive, attacking football left an indelible mark on Highlanders Football Club.
“The values he instilled and the standards he set continue to influence the club to this day.”
On behalf of the board of directors, executive committee, technical team, players, staff, members and supporters, Highlanders conveyed its condolences to the Barreto family and the wider football fraternity.
“We extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Barreto family during this difficult time. We also extend our sympathies to his friends, former colleagues, players and the entire football fraternity, who have lost a remarkable football mind and an exceptional human being.
“Rest in eternal peace, Coach Roy Barreto.”
Barreto is remembered as one of Zimbabwe’s finest football tacticians, having also coached Zimbabwe Saints, served as assistant coach to the late Reinhard Fabisch in the national team’s famed Dream Team era and enjoyed coaching success in Namibia and South Africa before retiring to Portugal.
