Jordan FA postpones unveiling of Moroccan coach Badou Zaki over family issues

The Jordan Football Association has postponed the unveiling of Moroccan football legend Badou Zaki as their new head coach due to family issues.

The event had been set to take place on Thursday afternoon at the federation’s headquarters in Amman, where Zaki was expected to be formally presented to the media following his recent appointment.

However, the ceremony has now been delayed after unforeseen family circumstances prevented the experienced Moroccan tactician from travelling to Jordan as planned.

The Jordan FA explained that the decision was taken after it became clear that Zaki would be unable to arrive in the country in time for the scheduled event. The federation added that a new date for the press conference will be announced once arrangements have been finalized.

Despite the postponement, Zaki remains firmly in place as Jordan’s new head coach after recently signing a one-year contract with the possibility of an extension by mutual agreement between both parties.

The appointment marks a significant move by the Jordan Football Association as it seeks to build on the national team’s recent progress and prepare for major continental challenges ahead. Zaki’s primary assignment will be leading the “Nashama” through the next phase of their development, with a particular focus on the 2027 AFC Asian Cup finals in Saudi Arabia.

Jordanian football officials are hopeful that the former Morocco international can bring his vast experience and winning mentality to the national team setup as the country aims to establish itself among Asia’s leading football nations.

Zaki arrives in Jordan with one of the most distinguished football resumes in African football history. Widely regarded as one of Morocco’s greatest-ever goalkeepers, he played a pivotal role in the Atlas Lions’ historic campaign at the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, where Morocco became the first African nation to reach the Round of 16 at the global showpiece.

His outstanding performances during that period earned him the prestigious African Player of the Year award in 1986, cementing his status as one of the continent’s football icons. Zaki later enjoyed a successful spell in Spain with Real Mallorca, where he further enhanced his reputation as a top-class goalkeeper.

Following his retirement from playing, Zaki transitioned into coaching and quickly established himself as one of Africa’s most respected managers. His greatest achievement on the touchline came in 2004 when he guided Morocco to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, leading the Atlas Lions to an impressive run before finishing runners-up in Tunisia.

Over the years, he has managed several prominent clubs across Morocco, including Wydad Casablanca, Fath Union Sport, Kawkab Marrakech and Ittihad Tanger. He has also gained valuable international experience through coaching roles with national teams and clubs outside Morocco.

Although Jordanian fans will have to wait a little longer to see their new coach officially unveiled, anticipation remains high surrounding Zaki’s arrival. Many supporters view his appointment as a statement of ambition by the federation as Jordan seeks to build a competitive team capable of challenging for honors on the Asian stage.

Once the new date is confirmed, Zaki is expected to outline his vision for the national team, discuss his plans for the upcoming Asian Cup campaign, and begin preparations for what Jordan hopes will be a successful new era under one of Africa’s most celebrated football figures.