Maximo in final talks to coach Zanzibar Heroes
Former Taifa Stars head coach Marcio Maximo (standing) during an instructor training session in Brazil. Maximo is in advanced talks to take over as head coach of the Zanzibar national football team, also known as Zanzibar Heroes. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- Maximo, who is widely respected for his ability to develop young and talented players, served as the head coach of the Tanzania national team (Taifa Stars) from June 29, 2006, to 2009
Dar es Salaam. Former Taifa Stars head coach Marcio Maximo is in advanced talks to take over as head coach of the Zanzibar national football team, also known as Zanzibar Heroes.
The revelation was made during the announcement of an upcoming international friendly match between Brazilian football legends and their Zanzibar counterparts.
The event, dubbed the “Match of the Legends,” is scheduled to take place on July 27 at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.
Brazil's Honorary Consul in Zanzibar, Abdulsamad Abdulrahim, confirmed the ongoing discussions with Maximo, stating that although the negotiations are not yet finalized, there is strong optimism that the experienced Brazilian tactician will take on the role.
“We are in negotiations with Maximo, but all things are going well and we hope to reach a final agreement very soon,” said Abdulrahim.
“He is a coach with a great history in Tanzania, and we believe he can bring value to Zanzibar football.”
The “Match of the Legends” will feature world-renowned footballers, including Ronaldo de Assís Moreira—popularly known as Ronaldinho Gaúcho—along with several other iconic Brazilian players.
The high-profile match aims to strengthen ties between Brazil and Zanzibar, both in football and cultural exchange.
Maximo, who is widely respected for his ability to develop young and talented players, served as the head coach of the Tanzania national team (Taifa Stars) from June 29, 2006, to 2009.
During his tenure, he made significant contributions to Tanzanian football, including raising the country's international profile.
One of his most notable achievements was guiding Tanzania to qualify for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) finals in 2009, which were held in Ivory Coast—a historic milestone for Tanzanian football at the time.
Maximo has since maintained strong ties with the country and expressed his affection for Tanzania, including Zanzibar.
Speaking about the possibility of returning, Maximo confirmed that discussions are ongoing.
“We are in conversations. I hope it works out because Tanzania—and Zanzibar in particular—are part of my life,” he said. “Let’s stay optimistic that soon we can make a meaningful contribution to Tanzanian football once again.”
If the deal is finalized, Maximo’s return is expected to inject new energy and experience into the Zanzibar Heroes’ technical bench as they aim to make strides in regional and continental competitions.
