Local Coaches Need Not Apply For Zimbabwe Warriors Job? ZIFA Sets Stringent Conditions

ZIFA’s Strict Licence Rules Block Local Coaches

The door appears firmly shut for local coaches hoping to lead the Zimbabwe national men’s football team, the Warriors. The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has set strict requirements for the vacant head coach role that currently exclude every local coach. The job advert clearly states that applicants must hold either a CAF Pro Licence or a UEFA Pro Licence. According to Soccer24 Zimbabwe, no local coach in Zimbabwe currently possesses those qualifications.

This follows the dismissal of German coach Michael Nees on Wednesday, 22 October 2025. Nees managed only two wins in sixteen matches. With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco just weeks away, the search for his successor is urgent. But under the new rules, the pool of local candidates is virtually empty.

A Job Description For An Elite Coach

The official vacancy for the Head Coach – Zimbabwe National Men’s Team (“The Warriors”) outlines a role of high responsibility and expectation. According to the ZIFA job advert, the successful candidate must lead the Warriors “to achieve competitive excellence in COSAFA, AFCON and FIFA competitions.”

The requirements leave little room for compromise. They state the non-negotiable “Minimum Qualifications” as a “CAF Pro Licence or UEFA Pro Licence (or equivalent internationally recognised qualification).” Applicants must also prove at least five years of experience at the national team or top-tier club level, with a record in African competitions such as AFCON and the CAF Champions League.

Remuneration is described as “a competitive, performance-based package commensurate with qualifications and experience.” Applications close on 30 October 2025.

A Voice For Local Knowledge And Foreign Flair

Former Warriors star Alois Bunjira previously shared his opinions on the matter. Writing on his Facebook page on Friday, 25 October 2025, he put forward names for both a local and a foreign appointment.

He stated:

“If ZIFA are considering a local coach, then Norman Mapeza is the right man. But if the association wants a foreigner, I would go for Pitso Mosimane. He has a proven track record of success and is highly qualified. He also knows a lot of our players as well. Pitso for me.”

Bunjira, once nicknamed “Cross Cross”, also suggested a possible technical setup.

“If Norman is reappointed, then Kaitano Tembo should be in the technical team together with Joel Luphahla and Lloyd Chitembwe. I can also be the strikers’ coach.”

His backing of Mosimane highlights the South African’s record. Mosimane lifted the CAF Champions League with Mamelodi Sundowns in 2016 and then won back-to-back titles with Al Ahly in 2020 and 2021.

The Clock Is Ticking Towards AFCON

The urgency is clear. On Thursday, 23 October 2025, ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi confirmed the Warriors will play friendly matches against Qatar and Algeria in November.

With the deadline of 30 October fast approaching and the November friendlies acting as a test, ZIFA’s choice of coach will determine how the Warriors march into Morocco this December. As reported by Soccer24 Zimbabwe, no local coach meets the strict licence requirements set by the association.