Tembo Appointed Zimbabwe Coach After Mario Resignation

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has appointed former SuperSport United and Richards Bay tactician Kaitano Tembo as the new Warriors head coach, following the shock resignation of Marian “Mario” Marinica.

In an official statement, ZIFA confirmed the Romanian mentor’s departure, citing “personal reasons” for his exit. Tembo will be assisted by the high-flying CAPS United gaffer, Takesure Chiragwi. The duo previously served together in the national team setup, understudying former coach Michael Nees.

Marinica’s sudden exit comes amid a cloud of controversy following a public falling-out with vice-captain Marshall Munetsi. Despite his high profile, Munetsi was excluded from the squad for the entirety of Marinica’s six-month tenure, including the underwhelming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign in Morocco earlier this year.

ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi distanced the association from the Munetsi selection saga, asserting that all squad call-ups remained the sole prerogative of the head coach. Despite the friction with senior players, Marinica is credited with modernizing the Warriors’ identity through an expansive and attacking style of play.

Tembo’s first task in the dugout will be leading Zimbabwe in the Unity Cup, scheduled to take place in England.