HARARE – Michael Nees, the newly appointed head coach of the Zimbabwe Men’s National Team, has pledged to bring an unpredictable edge to the Warriors as they gear up for the AFCON 2025 and FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Nees, a 57-year-old German coach who was appointed Warriors’ coach on Tuesday, aims to inject a modern and innovative approach into Zimbabwe’s football strategy.

With a UEFA Pro Licence and an M.A. in Sports Science, Performance Physiology, and Ethnology from the University of Heidelberg, Nees also holds a unique coaching qualification in “Life Kinetik,” a method introduced by Jürgen Klopp.

His 25-year career includes key roles across CAF, UEFA, and AFC, with experience in over 200 international matches.

Notably, he served as Head Coach of the Rwanda Senior Men’s National Team and as Director of Coaching and Education at the South African Football Association (SAFA).

Nees was also part of the support staff for the England National Team during the FIFA World Cup 2006.

“I am a modern and innovative coach who is driven by international challenges and who can think outside the box to gain a competitive advantage,” he said.

“Without a doubt, the Warriors always have great players and massive team potential, but they need to avoid being too predictable to qualify for the FIFA World Cup and the African Cup of Nations.

“I am confident in achieving these goals because I have the expertise to professionally enhance all major factors of performance and to make a difference within a short period. I will guide the national team with dedication and professionalism, and work to achieve a winning Zimbabwe that can make the nation proud,” added Michael Nees.

ZIFA Chairman of the Normalisation Committee, Lincoln Mutasa, voiced strong support for Nees’s appointment, stating, “ZIFA is confident that Michael Nees’s appointment will usher in a new era of success for the Warriors. His vast experience, combined with his innovative coaching style, makes him the ideal candidate to lead our national team to new heights.” Kukurigo