The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) recently issued an announcement confirming that 58-year-old German coach Michael Nice is no longer the head coach of the national team.

“The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) wishes to inform all stakeholders and the public that the Executive Committee has decided to terminate the contract of Mr Michael Nice with immediate effect,” the announcement read.

“The Football Association would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Mr. Nice for his efforts and contributions to Zimbabwean football during his tenure. His dedication to football and his service to the national team system deserve recognition and gratitude.”

According to multiple sources, the main reason for Nice's departure, two months early, was his underperforming team. Since taking the helm in July 2024, he has led the team in 14 matches, with a combined record of 2 wins, 7 draws, and 5 losses. However, the key factor that ultimately led the Chinese Football Association to decide on Nice's dismissal was Zimbabwe's disastrous performance in the African World Cup qualifiers. They played eight consecutive matches, only managing 4 draws, 4 losses, and accumulating only 4 points, ultimately finishing last in Group C and missing out on the 2026 World Cup.

The Zimbabwe Football Association has yet to make a final decision on Nice's successor. The statement concluded: "ZIFA remains firmly committed to advancing its technical development projects and ensuring continued progress in all areas of football, in line with the established reform and restructuring agenda. Further information regarding transitional arrangements and the interim technical team will be announced in due course."

Sources have reported that the Zimbabwe Football Association plans to appoint a temporary technical team within days. There is widespread speculation that Zimbabwean football legends Norman Mapeza or Peter Ndlovu could take charge of the national team during the transition period and lead them into the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations group stage.