The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has announced the appointment of Marian (Mario) Marinica as the new Head Coach of the Zimbabwe Senior Men’s National Football Team, the Warriors, on a one-year contract.

Marinica, a highly accomplished UEFA Pro Licensed coach, brings over 25 years of international experience across four continents, Africa, Europe, Asia, and South America. His coaching journey has seen him work with prestigious clubs and national teams including Arsenal FC, Chelsea FC, Internazionale Milano, AS Monaco, Liverpool FC, and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as the Paraguay, Mauritius, Malawi, and Liberia national teams.

Holding a Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Coaching from South Bank University (England) and a Diploma in Management, Marinica combines technical expertise with strategic leadership. His track record includes guiding Malawi to their best-ever finish, the Round of 16, at the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations, and helping Liberia achieve the highest climb in FIFA rankings in June 2024.

ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi welcomed the new coach, stating:

“We are delighted to welcome Coach Marinica to Zimbabwe. His wealth of experience, modern football philosophy, and proven international results make him the ideal candidate to lead the Warriors into a new era. His appointment reflects ZIFA’s commitment to building a competitive and sustainable football structure that delivers results both on and off the pitch.”

Marinica’s extensive background also includes serving as a Technical Director, Coach Educator, and Performance Consultant, with expertise in player development, match analysis, and grassroots structures. Known for empowering local coaches and integrating diaspora talent, his appointment aligns with ZIFA’s long-term football development strategy.

The new coach will assume his duties immediately and is expected to oversee preparations for the Warriors’ upcoming friendly matches against Algeria and Qatar, as well as the 2025 AFCON campaign.

_{Source: ZIFA}