Online Reporter
Charles Mhlauri
Zimpapers Sports Hub Correspondent
THE death of Roy Barreto is a huge loss to Zimbabwean football. He was a coach par excellence — a gifted football mind whose influence went far beyond the touchline.
He was a true student and scientist of the game, paying meticulous attention to every detail. His emphasis on tactical discipline, preparation, body mechanics, nutrition, and the scientific aspects of football placed him years ahead of his time, especially in Zimbabwean football.
I was never surprised by the challenges he faced at Orlando Pirates, despite winning the league championship. Roy was uncompromising in his principles. I still remember how he insisted that a player like Willard Khumalo should wear braces to improve posture, reduce weight, and achieve better body balance through proper body mass index management.
At the time, many did not understand his thinking, but today such practices are commonplace in elite football. Roy simply saw the game differently.
My own journey with Roy began when he was one of my earliest coaching instructors during the Intermediate Soccer Coaching Course at Raylton Sports Club in Bulawayo.
That experience laid an important foundation for my coaching career. Over time, we developed a close relationship, particularly because he had a great appreciation of my AmaZulu and Phinda Mzala teams.
Roy would often invite me to his home, which was only a stone’s throw from the AmaZulu training ground.
His house was a treasure trove of football literature — a library filled with coaching books, tactical manuals, and journals.
After training, I would occasionally stop by and he would generously lend me books to study.
Those conversations shaped my understanding of football more than he probably ever realised.
Fate later brought us together professionally when Roy was appointed head coach of AmaZulu and I became his assistant.
This came after his successful involvement with Zimbabwe’s Dream Team national side. Having worked with many coaches throughout my career, I have come to believe there are no bad coaches — only different coaching philosophies.
However, Roy belonged to the very top tier.
He immediately began re-building AmaZulu with his characteristic vision and professionalism.
Unfortunately, he was simultaneously serving as national team coach, and balancing both demanding roles proved difficult at an ambitious club like AmaZulu.
Although his stay was relatively short, he left behind a lasting impression through his tactical intelligence, analytical ability, and unwavering professionalism.
Roy left nothing to chance. Every player’s role and responsibility was clearly defined.
No one was guaranteed a place in the team. Every opponent was meticulously analysed, with strengths and weaknesses identified in every area of the pitch. His planning was thorough, and his attention to detail was second to none.
Those years also brought me closer to both Roy and the late Reinhard Fabisch, who were close friends.
Roy introduced me to Reinhard, who later became my instructor during an Advanced Coaching Course at Raylton Sports Club.
It was through discussions with both men that the seed was planted for me to pursue further coaching education in Germany.
That journey eventually became a reality, thanks also to my dear friend, the late Cleopas Dlodlo, who was close to Roy and helped strengthen our relationship.
Roy’s love for methodical build-up play, tactical discipline, and the application of science to football — whether through fitness, nutrition, biomechanics, or match analysis — set him apart from most coaches of his generation.
He was fair but firm with his players, demanding high standards while treating everyone with respect.
And yes, those who knew him will also remember that he rarely went far without his beloved cigarette.
Barreto leaves behind a rich coaching legacy and countless football minds that he helped shape.
I count myself privileged to have learned from him, worked alongside him, and called him a mentor and friend.
His contribution to Zimbabwean football, and to everyone fortunate enough to cross his path, will never be forgotten.
Farewell, Roy. Thank you for your wisdom, your friendship, and your enduring contribution to the beautiful game. May you Rest in Eternal Peace.
Charles Mhlauri is a former Zimbabwe and CAPS United coach and is currently Director of Coaching Boston Bolts Upper Valley in the US
