ZIFA to Name New Warriors Head Coach by Tuesday

ZIFA is set to announce the new Warriors head coach by Tuesday next week after finalising contractual details (image source)

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is set to announce the new head coach of the senior men’s national football team, the Warriors, by Tuesday next week, sources within the association confirmed on Sunday.

The move follows the departure of German coach Michael Nees after a poor run of results that prompted ZIFA to launch an expedited recruitment process. According to insiders, the selection panel has reached an advanced stage, having identified a preferred candidate and is now finalising contractual details and clearance checks before making the appointment official.

ZIFA’s criteria reportedly include possession of a CAF Pro Licence or UEFA equivalent, proven experience in African competitions, and a strong record in player management and tactical execution. Both local and foreign candidates have been under consideration, with the final decision expected to balance experience with familiarity with the regional game.

Stakeholders in local football have offered mixed reactions. Some coaches and former national players welcomed the quick turnaround, saying an early appointment allows for proper planning ahead of next year’s fixtures. Others, however, cautioned that the chosen coach should receive full technical and administrative support, including consistent competitive programmes and access to local talent.

The timing is seen as crucial for the Warriors’ preparations, giving the incoming coach time to evaluate the domestic player pool and establish relationships with club managers before regional qualifiers and friendly matches. ZIFA has in the past faced criticism for its frequent coaching changes and lack of continuity, a pattern many hope will be broken with this appointment.

While ZIFA officials declined to reveal the frontrunner’s identity, they confirmed that the executive committee will ratify the selection once the subcommittee completes its recommendation. If announced as expected by Tuesday, the decision will pave the way for immediate mobilisation of technical staff and the scheduling of training camps and friendlies ahead of upcoming competitions.