Chris Hughton Set to Lead Zimbabwe Team

Former Ghana head coach Chris Hughton has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate for the vacant Zimbabwe national team job.

The Warriors have been without a coach since Michael Nees was dismissed following a poor run of results. Earlier this week, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) announced the start of its search for a new head coach, calling for applications from qualified candidates.

Despite interest from well-known names such as Stuart Baxter, Pitso Mosimane, and Kaitano Tembo, reports suggest that Hughton has officially applied for the job and is now the frontrunner among more than 300 applicants.

The 65-year-old coach, who has previously managed English clubs Brighton & Hove Albion, Nottingham Forest, and Newcastle United, has been without a team since leaving his role with Ghana in January 2024.

ZIFA president Nobile Magwizi revealed that the process of appointing a new coach is almost complete. “The process of appointing a coach is at an advanced stage. I think by Monday or Tuesday next week, we should be in a position to make an announcement,” he told SuperSport’s Africa Sport.

Hughton’s potential appointment is seen as a major step for Zimbabwe, as the team prepares for two key international friendlies next week. The Warriors will face Algeria in Saudi Arabia on November 13 before hosting Qatar four days later.

These matches form part of Zimbabwe’s build-up to the Africa Cup of Nations, which is set to take place in December.

Hughton, known for his tactical discipline and calm leadership style, could bring valuable experience to the Zimbabwean side if appointed. His success in managing top clubs in England and leading Ghana through crucial qualifiers makes him one of the most experienced coaches linked to the position.