It is hard to forget him. Abel Xavier, the former Portuguese international instantly recognizable for his peroxide-blond hair and distinctive beard, has been appointed as the new coach of the Mozambique national team.
The announcement was made on Monday by the president of the Mozambican Football Federation. Xavier, full name **Faysal Abel Luis da Silva Costa Xavier**, has signed a two-year contract and will immediately be tasked with steering the “Mambas” through qualification for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
The 43-year-old is best known for a colourful playing career that saw him represent clubs in some of Europe’s biggest leagues. A defender, he played for **Liverpool** and **Everton** in the Premier League, as well as spells in Italy, Spain, Germany, and the United States before hanging up his boots in 2009.
After retirement, Xavier turned to coaching, starting in Portugal’s lower divisions. His new role with Mozambique represents his first major international assignment — and a significant step up in responsibility.
The challenge ahead is considerable. Mozambique have not qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations since 2010 and face a difficult task to reach Gabon 2017. But Xavier is confident he can bring new ideas and energy to the team.
For a man who made 20 appearances for Portugal, including playing at **Euro 2000**, the move to international management in Africa is another chapter in a career defined by bold choices. Now, Xavier’s mission is clear: restore Mozambique’s pride on the continental stage.
