Pirates appoint Zinnbauer as coach
Orlando Pirates has announced the appointment of Josef Zinnbauer as the club’s new head coach.
The 49-year-old German has been given a three-year contract.
Zinnbauer takes charge with the Soweto giants languishing in 6th position on the Absa Premiership table.
Pirates chairperson Irvin Khoza says he hopes Zinnbauer will be able to hit the ground running after what has been a difficult start to the season for the club.
Khoza says it’s never easy to choose a new coach.
“It is a fine balancing act that goes beyond the all-important technical skills. A coach is tasked to win through others. His ability to keep the team focused, making them work in concert, with minimal lapses is an important requirement.
“I hope that Josef Zinnbauer is able to hit the deck running. I know I am fully representative of all the Orlando Pirates Supporters in wishing him good luck.”
For his part, Zinnbauer says the opportunity to join a club of Pirates’ calibre was too good to turn down.
“I welcome the opportunity to lead one of the prestigious clubs on the African continent. I hope under my lead, we are able to return the club to its winning ways.”
Rhulani Mokwena will continue as interim coach until Zinnbauer’s work permit is granted. Mokwena will then return to his position as assistant coach alongside Fadlu Davids.
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