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Zimpapers Sports Hub
Former Warriors midfielder Tafadzwa Kutinyu has set his sights on a future role with the Zimbabwe senior national team as a data and performance analyst.
Kutinyu is serving in the same capacity for Tanzanian topflight club Singida Black Stars.
It follows his appointment in December after completing studies with a Spanish institution.
Forced to retire from professional football at the age of 28 due to a severe nose injury requiring two surgeries during his time with Chicken Inn, Kutinyu transitioned into the field of data and performance analysis. Following his appointment by Singida, the former Bantu Rovers midfielder now hopes to bring his expertise to the national stage once experienced.
“Everyone wants to contribute to their nation,” Kutinyu said. “My ambition is to work as a data and performance analyst for the Warriors in the near future.”
He added, “This is a relatively new career for me, so I’m focused on gaining experience. However, it’s my dream to eventually work with the national team.”
Currently holding the position of data and performance analyst in the national team set up is the United Arab Emirates based James Makoni who was reportedly head-hunted by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) during former Warriors coach Baltermar Brito’s tenure in November 2023. Data and performance analysis has become increasingly crucial in modern football.
The role encompasses tasks such as video analysis of opposing teams as well as real time match observation.
Other national teams, such as South Africa, have invested in multiple analysts to support coaching staff with pre-match preparations by providing insights and information about upcoming opponents.
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