Watch: Warriors coach Marian Marinica speaks on injuries, and AFCON expectations

Marian Marinica arrives in Zimbabwe with a reputation for turning underdogs dangerous. He guided Malawi to an historic AFCON knockout stage appearance.

Moreover, his experience across Africa and Europe sharpened his tactical flexibility. Therefore, his move to the Warriors already looks a smart football decision. Zimbabwe gain a coach comfortable working with limited resources and big expectations.

At the same time, Marinica values discipline, structure, and fast transitions in play. Consequently, many fans believe his appointment could unlock long-awaited national potential. Now he targets AFCON, determined to script a new Warriors chapter.

Warriors coach Marian Marinica opens up

Marinica recently addressed concerns around player fitness and injuries. He confirmed a few knocks but insisted the medical team manages issues well. Furthermore, he welcomed international players flying in from European clubs. He revealed they still expect two more abroad based warriors in camp. Because of FIFA regulations, players were allowed to arrive slightly later than usual.

Marinica appreciated that flexibility, saying it protected relationships with European teams. He stressed the squad now looks settled and trains with real intensity. Additionally, he praised the players’ attitude, calling it professional and hungry. Looking ahead to AFCON, Marinica outlined clear expectations. He wants brave, tactically disciplined performances in every group match.

Importantly, he promised to chase what previous Warriors generations never achieved. He spoke of going beyond group stages and challenging bigger nations. Above all, he vowed to make Zimbabwe proud on the continental stage.

Fans react

After the Warriors coach Marian Marinica gave injury updates and AFCON expectations, fans had a lot to say.

@Tody Chingono “My friend if we loose while yu removing key players you will see the true colour’s of zimbo”

@Ngoni Ngwena “That’s very true,if you play today and next games you don’t play,that player might struggle for example lvory Coast coach Emerse Fae did not include Simon Adingra (23) in the last international break because currently Adingra is not getting enough minutes at Sunderland FC and he selected Yan Diomande (19) of RB Leipzig because he is playing every week in Germany. Playing 90 minutes every week is the most important aspect in football because at high pressure situations if you are not playing at your club,the player might struggle to adapt fast.#GowarriorsGo”

@Shorai Manjonjo “Ko zvaimbonzi vacha camper ku spain kana ndisingakanganise”

@Wonder Taonengwere “But ataura hake zvandahwa most of the players called in camp are for future tournament anogona kutora 6or 7 local players to Morocco”