União Desportiva do Songo, representing Tete province in the Moçambola league, appears to be considering Abel Xavier for the coaching position. The former national team coach is in pole position to replace Serbian coach Srdjan Zivjnov, whose contract was not renewed.
If it comes to fruition, this will be a significant return for Abel Xavier to his birthplace, marking a new chapter in his coaching career. Abel Xavier previously managed the Mambas, the Mozambican national team, between January 2016 and July 2019.
During his time as coach of the Mambas, Abel Xavier faced several challenges and left a mixed mark. Among the positive highlights are the victories against Zambia in the qualifying phase for CAN-2019, as well as the wins in friendly matches against Angola and Cape Verde.
However, there were challenging moments, such as elimination from the 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN) against Madagascar and failure to qualify for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) after defeats against Namibia. Abel Xavier's time with the Mambas included 30 games, with 10 wins, eight draws, and 12 losses.
The potential return of Abel Xavier to Mozambique not only brings with it vast international experience as a player and coach, but also represents an opportunity to contribute to the development of Mozambican football.
