Zinnbauer Finally Breaks Silence On Pirates Exit

Former Orlando Pirates coach Josef Zinnbauer has finally broken his silence on his exit from the Buccaneers.

The German tactician resigned from his post as head coach in the final week ahead of the 2021/22 DStv Premiership campaign after starting the pre-season with the Sea Robbers, and his sudden departure surprised many.

At the time, Pirates stated Zinnbauer left due to personal reasons and the 51-year-old now gave further details into his decision.

“Mainly for family reasons. It is well known that my son had a serious accident so I just want to be with him more,” he said, as per MTN FC.

“My wife and our youngest son did visit South Africa, but it wasn’t often. The flights are long and during the pandemic it was sometimes not possible to enter the country. 

“I just wanted to be closer to my family again.”

Zinnbauer’s son Fabio was involved in a serious car accident during his father’s time in South Africa and the former Bucs coach explained that his health has improved a little bit.

“It’s difficult to talk about it. It’s gotten a little better, but he’s still far from recovered,” he said.

“He is pushing forward in small steps. He was in a coma for a long time but has since woken up. I visited my son in the hospital during the international breaks. 

“Unfortunately, due to the corona pandemic, he was alone a lot because nobody was allowed to see him. At some point it was at least possible that one person could be with him. 

“We then decided on his mother because she is local. But when it was possible and allowed, I took every opportunity to be with my son.”

Zinnbauer left Pirates with a record of 35 wins, 20 draws and 13 losses in his 68 matches in charge.

Official: Zinnbauer Leaves Pirates