ZEKEY MEDIA ONLINE

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Zifa’s Search for a New Warriors Coach

Zekey Media Online

October 31, 2025

2–3 minutes

football, news, soccer, sport, Sports

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Chris Hughton

Melody Zekey Pande
In a significant shift within Zimbabwean football, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) parted ways with Michael Nees and is actively seeking a successor to lead the national team, the Warriors. This transition has ignited considerable interest, with ZIFA reportedly receiving over 300 applications for the head coaching position. Among these applications are notable figures, including former Tottenham Hotspur and Norwich City manager Chris Hughton.
A decision regarding the new Warriors coach is anticipated next week, as ZIFA races against time to prepare for two crucial friendlies against Algeria and Qatar during the upcoming FIFA international break in November. The Warriors are set to face Algeria in Saudi Arabia on November 13, followed by a match against Qatar just four days later. These fixtures are essential as they serve as part of the team’s preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in December.

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One name that has emerged prominently in discussions is that of Pitso Mosimane, the former head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly. The seasoned 61-year-old tactician has been out of a managerial role since his departure from Esteghlal FC in January 2025, yet he remains a highly regarded figure in African football. His potential candidacy has sparked excitement, particularly among former players and fans. Alois Bunjira, a former star of Mamelodi Sundowns, has voiced strong support for Mosimane, suggesting he would be the ideal choice to step into the vacant role left by Nees.
Bunjira emphasized Mosimane’s impressive track record and familiarity with many of the current players, stating, “If we decide to go for a foreign coach, I would choose Pitso Mosimane. He has a proven track record of success and is highly qualified. For me, Pitso is the best.” Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Willard Katsande also weighed in, urging ZIFA to appoint Mosimane through a passionate social media post. “ZIFA, what are we waiting for? This man (Pitso) loves Zimbabwean players with all his heart,” he declared.
As ZIFA continues its search for the next head coach, the football community eagerly anticipates the announcement. The Warriors, who will be competing against strong teams like Bafana Bafana, Angola, and Egypt in the AFCON, must recover swiftly from a disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign that ultimately led to the coaching change.