Former Orlando Pirates gaffer Josef Zinnbauer appointed Al Hilal new coach

Former Orlando Pirates head coach Josef Zinnbauer has been appointed as the new head coach of Sudanese giants Al Hilal.

The German tactician returns to club management with Al Hilal after a spell of moving between clubs across Africa since leaving Orlando Pirates in 2021.

Zinnbauer enjoyed a successful spell with the South African side, guiding the Buccaneers to the MTN8 title before ending his time at the club.

Since then, the German coach has continued to build his coaching career across the continent, taking charge of clubs in Morocco, Algeria and, most recently, Tanzania.

His appointment at Al Hilal represents another major challenge for the experienced coach, who will be expected to compete for domestic honours while also leading the Sudanese giants in continental competition.

Zinnbauer has signed a two-year contract and is expected to guide the Sudanese giants to success in the upcoming campaign.

“We are proud to announce the appointment of German coach Josef Zinnbauer as the new head coach of the King of Sudanese Football, on a two-year contract,” the club said.

“A new chapter begins. A new vision. A new challenge. Welcome to Al Hilal family, Coach Zinnbauer.

“We believe in your experience, ambition, and leadership, and we look forward to achieving great things together. The journey starts now. Let’s make history.”

Zinnbauer will immediately turn his attention to Al Hilal’s preparations for the new campaign, with the club set to participate in the CAF Champions League.

The Sudanese giants have been drawn against Burundian side Aigle Noir Makamba in the preliminary round of the competition.

The tie will provide Zinnbauer with his first opportunity to lead Al Hilal in continental competition as he begins his two-year tenure at the club.

With Al Hilal aiming to make a strong push in Africa, the German coach will be tasked with combining his experience of African football with the club’s ambitions on the domestic and continental fronts.