Breaking News: Zimbabwe Football Association appoints Marian Marinica as Warriors head coach

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has ushered in a new chapter with the appointment of Marian (Mario) Marinica as the head coach of the national team, the Warriors, on a one-year contract.

The association believes Marinica’s vast international experience will be key in restoring Zimbabwe’s football pride.

A UEFA Pro Licensed coach, Marinica brings over 25 years of coaching and technical experience across Africa, Europe, Asia, and South America. His impressive resume includes stints with top clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Liverpool, as well as national sides like Malawi and Liberia.

Under his leadership, Malawi reached the Round of 16 at the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations, their best-ever finish, while Liberia achieved their highest FIFA ranking in June 2024.

ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi praised the appointment, saying: “We are delighted to welcome Coach Marinica to Zimbabwe. His wealth of experience, modern football philosophy, and proven results at international level make him the ideal candidate to lead the Warriors into a new era.”

Marinica’s first task will be leading the Warriors in upcoming friendly matches and the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.