Orlando Pirates coach, Josef Zinnbauer hands in a resignation letter after beating Kaizer Chiefs 3-0 in the MTN8 semi-final clash. Initially, Orlando Pirates head coach Josef Zinnbauer confirmed he will return to Germany after the Soweto derby to attend to a family matter.
The German intended to terminate his contract with Orlando Pirates, Savannanews has learned, and headed to OR Tambo International Airport after the Soweto derby.
Josef Zinnbauer resigns, choses family over career
Speaking briefly to Savannanews after handing in his resignation letter, Zinnbauer emphasized the importance of family and a conducive working environment.
“We don’t choose family, neither do we chose what happens to them, a conducive and tolerant working environment is what every employee needs, the one which accommodates both personal and professional matters. My son is in hospital and he needs me, i have to go immediately, when there is a need to make a choice, employees always chose their families“ he said.
Pirates confirm Josef Zinnbauer exit, plays down resignation allegations
Despite handing in a resignation letter, Pirates management is believed to have allowed the coach to go home and attend to his sick son and come back to work.
“Orlando Pirates can confirm that the Club has granted the head coach leaves to go home to Germany. Unfortunately, out of respect for Mr. Zinnbauer and his family we cannot divulge anything more except to say that his son is in hospital.”
Zinnbauer joined Pirates back in December as a successor to the former assistant and interim coach Rhulani Mokwena, the former Hamburger mentor leaves after just 22 matches, with his overall record reading 12 wins, seven draws, and three defeats.
He hinted about his exit in the post-match press conference
“Please understand, it’s family that’s very, very close to me and me and the family, we speak about it not in the official [way], I’m sorry about this. I hope you understand it,” said Zinnbauer
Assistant coach Fadlu Davids is expected to take the interim reigns at Orlando Pirates.