Former Orlando Pirates coach Josef Zinnbauer has made a return to club management, assuming the role of head coach at Algerian giants JS Kabylie.
This appointment marks a significant move for the German coach following a brief and ultimately unsuccessful spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Wehda.
His tenure there lasted only five months and was marred by poor results, with the team securing just one victory in 12 matches, ultimately leading to his dismissal.
This new role offers Zinnbauer a chance to rebuild his reputation after the setback in Saudi Arabia. He brings to Kabylie a proven track record, most notably his impressive achievement with Raja Club Athletic in Morocco.
There, he guided the team to an undefeated league title and secured qualification for the prestigious CAF Champions League, demonstrating his ability to build competitive and successful sides.
Zinnbauer has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with JS Kabylie, signalling a commitment from both parties to a longer-term project.
The Algerian club is currently enjoying a strong season, sitting atop the Ligue 1 table with 24 points after 14 matches. This provides Zinnbauer with a solid foundation to build upon and the opportunity to compete for silverware immediately.
Kabylie faces a tough test in their upcoming league fixture, an away match against CR Belouizdad. This game adds an interesting subplot with the presence of South African striker Khanyisa Mayo at Belouizdad. The match is scheduled to kick off this evening at 18h45.
