Cape Verde coach Bubista dismisses RS Berkane links

Cape Verde head coach Bubista has reaffirmed his commitment to the national team, dismissing growing speculation linking him with a move to Moroccan giants RS Berkane following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The experienced tactician has been the subject of intense transfer rumours in recent days, with reports suggesting he was on the verge of leaving the Blue Sharks to take over the Botola Pro side ahead of the new season.

The speculation gained momentum after claims emerged that RS Berkane had identified Bubista as their preferred candidate to lead the club, prompting widespread discussion about the future of one of Africa’s highly respected national team coaches.

However, the Cape Verdean manager has now moved to silence the rumours, insisting that despite receiving several attractive offers from clubs and national teams, he remains fully committed to the Blue Sharks project.

Speaking to a local media outlet, Bubista admitted that interest in his services had increased following Cape Verde’s impressive performances on the international stage, particularly around the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He revealed that he had received approaches both before and after the tournament but stressed that none had changed his desire to continue leading his country.

The coach explained that while the offers reflected recognition of the progress he has made with Cape Verde, his immediate priority remains guiding the national team through the next phase of its development.

His comments effectively end speculation over a potential move to RS Berkane, with Bubista making it clear that he has no intention of stepping down from his role at this stage.

Since taking charge of the Blue Sharks, Bubista has earned widespread praise for transforming Cape Verde into one of Africa’s most competitive national teams. Under his leadership, the island nation has consistently punched above its weight, earning positive results against some of the continent’s biggest footballing nations.

His tactical discipline, emphasis on defensive organisation and ability to maximise the potential of his squad have been key factors behind Cape Verde’s recent success on the international stage.

The team’s performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup further enhanced Bubista’s reputation, attracting attention from clubs seeking an experienced coach capable of delivering results both domestically and in continental competitions.

Despite that growing interest, the coach has reiterated that his focus remains firmly on the Blue Sharks, with ambitions of building on the progress already achieved and leading Cape Verde to further success in upcoming international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations and future World Cup qualifiers.

His decision will come as welcome news for Cape Verdean football supporters, who view Bubista as the architect of the national team’s recent rise and believe continuity on the bench is crucial to sustaining the country’s momentum on the international stage.

For now, the experienced coach has made his position unmistakably clear: although opportunities continue to present themselves, his journey with Cape Verde is far from over.