HARARE – Former Dynamos and Zimbabwe national team striker Norman Maroto has died 14 days shy of his 41st birthday, the Zimbabwe Football Association announced.
He died at a private hospital in Harare in the early hours of Friday after checking himself in complaining of severe flu.
Friends said Maroto attended his aunt’s funeral in Borrowdale on Saturday last week where he is thought to have caught the flu.
In a statement, ZIFA said: “It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we extend our sincere condolences on the passing of Norman Maroto, a cherished member of the Zimbabwe football family.
“Norman’s contribution to Zimbabwean football was immense and profound. As a player, he graced the pitch with exceptional talent, earning admiration and respect from fans and peers alike.
“His transition into a football administrator further showcased his dedication to the sport, and his work with the Footballers Union of Zimbabwe was marked by a steadfast commitment to the welfare of players and the growth of football in our nation.”
Born in Harare on July 11, 1983, Maroto shone for his high school side at Churchill High School and was recruited into Dynamos’ juniors before being promoted to the senior team in 2001 by coach Moses Chunga.
Maroto was capped three times by Zimbabwe and also had stints with Buymore, Gunners, Motor Action, FC Platinum and Chiredzi.
After retirement, Maroto cultivated a huge social media following offering his thoughts on football.
In his final tweet from hospital on June 25, he wrote: “It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light.”
