Former Jose Mourinho's assistant coach takes charge of Zimbabwe

FOOTBALL Former Jose Mourinho's assistant coach takes charge of Zimbabwe

Festus Chuma 16:36 - 21.09.2023

Former Mourinho's assistant becomes interim coach of Zimbabwe, bringing the Portuguese's influence to the team.

Former Jose Mourinho's assistant coach Baltemar Brito has taken the reins as the head coach of Zimbabwe's national team ahead of the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. 

This appointment comes after the nation's FIFA suspension was lifted in July, marking a new chapter in Zimbabwean football.

Brito, a seasoned football veteran at the age of 71, has recently been making waves in Zimbabwe's domestic football scene by leading Highlanders, the country's oldest club, on a remarkable 19-match unbeaten run. 

With their stellar performance, Highlanders have emerged as strong contenders for the domestic title, thanks to the guidance of Brito.

"The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is pleased to inform the nation that it has appointed Baltemar Brito as the head coach of the senior men's team forthwith until June 2024. He will be assisted by Bongani Mafu and Genesis Mangombe," the official statement from ZIFA declared.

This strategic appointment was made by the Normalisation Committee (NC) after an extensive recruitment and consultative process, adhering to regional, continental, and global confederations’ guidelines. 

The NC has also set the coaches' term of engagement to conclude concurrently with its mandate, ensuring that the next board will have the opportunity to select its own coaching staff.

Brito and his assistant coaches are slated to kick off their tenure with an invitational match to celebrate Botswana's Independence Day on September 30th. 

Subsequently, they will be tasked with the arduous mission of building a formidable team to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers scheduled for November.

In a display of sportsmanship, ZIFA extended its gratitude to Highlanders FC and Dynamos for allowing their employees to serve the nation while continuing to fulfill their club responsibilities. The coaches will remain affiliated with their respective clubs and will be called up for national assignments as needed.

"The association pleads for the nation's patience as it continues with the recruitment of remaining national teams coaches," the statement concluded, signaling the ongoing efforts to strengthen Zimbabwe's football infrastructure.

Brito's appointment as Zimbabwe's interim coach brings with it a unique blend of international expertise and local talent development.

 Having closely worked with one of the football world's most illustrious figures, José Mourinho, Brito is expected to introduce innovative strategies and a winning mentality to the national team.

José Mourinho himself has been a cornerstone in the world of football management, leaving an indelible mark on clubs like Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, FC Porto, and Manchester United. 

Known for his tactical brilliance and charismatic persona, Mourinho's influence on his coaching staff is profound. Brito's journey alongside Mourinho has undoubtedly shaped his coaching philosophy and strategic acumen.

Tags: