Jordan Football Association Appoints Badou Zaki as Head Coach
In a significant move for the Jordanian national football team, the Jordan Football Association (JFA), under the leadership of HRH Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, has officially appointed Moroccan coach Badou Zaki as the new head coach. This announcement was made on July 19, 2026, marking a new chapter for the team, known as the Nashama, as they prepare for upcoming competitions, including the highly anticipated Asian Cup finals set to take place in Saudi Arabia in early 2027.
Badou Zaki's appointment comes on the heels of the resignation of former head coach Jamal Sellami and his technical staff, a decision the JFA accepted with gratitude for Sellami's contributions during his tenure. The association expressed confidence in Zaki's capabilities and is eager to see his strategies unfold within the team. A one-year contract has been signed, and the new coach is expected to introduce his full technical staff following his recommendations.
Zaki's Impressive Career and Achievements
Badou Zaki is no stranger to the world of football, having made a name for himself both as a player and as a coach. His illustrious career includes a remarkable stint as a goalkeeper for the Moroccan national team, where he played an instrumental role in leading the squad to the round of 16 at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. His skills and performance earned him the title of African Footballer of the Year the same year, further solidifying his status in the sport. Zaki also had a notable club career, playing for Spain's Real Mallorca, where he showcased his talents on an international stage.
As a coach, Zaki's experience is equally impressive. He notably guided the Moroccan national team to the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations in 2004. His coaching resume includes managing several prominent clubs and national teams, such as Wydad AC, FUS Rabat, Kawkab Marrakech, and Ittihad Tanger, as well as the national teams of Sudan and Niger. With such a rich history in football, Zaki's leadership is poised to bring fresh energy and direction to the Jordan national team.
As reported by petra.gov.jo.
