Josef Zinnbauer set to arrive in Kigali as new Al Hilal coach

New Al Hilal SC head coach Josef Zinnbauer is expected to arrive in Rwanda on Tuesday, 11 August, as he prepares to begin his tenure at the Sudanese giants.

The German coach is scheduled to land at Kigali International Airport at 09:50 local time, marking the start of his latest assignment in African football.

Zinnbauer’s arrival is expected to pave the way for him to formally begin preparations with Al Hilal as the club looks ahead to the new season and its domestic and continental commitments.

The 55-year-old has considerable experience of African football, having previously worked with clubs on the continent. His appointment is expected to bring both international experience and familiarity with the demands of African club competition to Al Hilal.

Al Hilal, one of Sudan’s most successful clubs, have been competing in Rwanda as they continue to operate away from home because of the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The club have used Rwanda as a base to maintain competitive football while their domestic league remains disrupted.

Zinnbauer will therefore take charge of a side with significant expectations, particularly given Al Hilal’s history and regular participation in CAF club competitions.

The German coach’s immediate priority will be to assess his squad, establish his preferred tactical approach and prepare the team for the challenges ahead.

His arrival in Kigali is consequently expected to be an important first step as Al Hilal begin a new chapter under his leadership.