The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is poised to name a new Warriors head coach by early next week, following an overwhelming global response to the vacant position that saw over 300 applications submitted.

ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi confirmed the announcement to the media , stating the selection process is in its final stages.

“The process of appointing the Warriors coach is at an advanced stage. We will announce by Monday at the latest; it should be Tuesday,” said Magwizi.

The position became available after the dismissal of Michael Nees due to a string of poor results, leaving the national team scrambling to find a replacement just two weeks before the crucial November FIFA international break.

The online application portal, which closed yesterday, drew a stampede of interest from coaches worldwide, with former Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and Ghana national team manager Chris Hughton reportedly among the high-profile frontrunners.

The unprecedented level of interest comes despite ZIFA setting a stringent minimum requirement, a CAF or UEFA Pro License.

This high bar has created a major hurdle for domestic candidates, as local coaching staff currently do not hold either of the mandated elite qualifications.

The new head coach will finalise preparations for two upcoming friendly matches against Algeria on November 13 in Saudi Arabia and Qatar four days later.

These matches will form part of the build-up for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament scheduled for December 2025.