Josef Zinnbauer Appointed New Orlando Pirates Coach

South Africa Premier Soccer League giants Orlando Pirates have confirmed the appointment of Josef Zinnbauer as the new head coach of the club.

The Sea Robbers announced the former FC St.Gallen coach’s arrival on their social media platforms and official portal stating that he has signed a three-year deal.

The 49-year-old German coach replaces Micho Sredojević who resigned four months ago citing personal reasons.

Pirates have since then been under caretaker coach Rhulani Mokwena who many thought would be given time to turn things around for the Buccaneers but it is understood that the management lost faith with the trainer.

“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,” club chairman Ivrin Khoza commented.

On accepting his appointment, coach Zinnbauer expressed his gratitude at the opportunity to join a club of Orlando Pirates’ calibre and stature.

“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,” he said.

Zinnbauer started coaching in 2014 when he joined Hamburg as the reserve team head coach before being elevated as gaffer in-charge of the first team for the 2014/2015 season.

He was then dropped back to reserve team next season following unimpressive performance before being appointed as head coach at Swedish side FC St. Gallen on September 15, 2015 until 2017.

Pirates, who are currently sixth in the PSL trailing league leaders Kaizer Chiefs by 17 points, will next meet Black Leopards in a league fixture on Saturday.