Ethiopia Parts Ways with Coach Mariano Barreto Ahead of 2017 AFCON Qualifiers
Ethiopia is on the lookout for a new head coach following the amicable termination of Mariano Barreto’s contract with the Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) this weekend. The decision to part ways with the Portuguese coach comes after a series of underwhelming results, notably missing out on qualification for the 2015 African Cup of Nations.
Barreto, who took charge of the Walya Antelopes in 2014 on a two-year deal, struggled to meet the set expectations during his tenure. Despite his experience and expertise, including previous coaching roles in various African countries, Barreto was unable to steer Ethiopia to the continental competition, leading to the termination of his contract ahead of the upcoming qualifiers for the 2017 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Walyas will need to act swiftly to secure a new coach before the 2017 AFCON qualifiers begin in June, where they are placed in a competitive group alongside Algeria, Lesotho, and Seychelles. With crucial matches ahead, Ethiopia’s search for a new coach will be key to their hopes of qualifying for the next AFCON and improving their standing in African football.
As the Ethiopian Football Association looks for a replacement, the focus will be on finding a manager who can inspire the team to greater success and help the Walya Antelopes bounce back from recent disappointments.
