Mozambican international Zainadine Júnior is leaving CS Marítimo in Portugal, ending an eight-year spell at the island club. The news was confirmed by Marítimo itself through a thank-you note published on the Madeira club's official social media channels.
In the statement, Marítimo expressed its gratitude for the commitment, professionalism, and dedication of the experienced central defender, wishing him the best of luck in this new stage of his career. "CS Marítimo thanks Zainadine Júnior for his commitment, professionalism, and dedication and wishes him the greatest personal and professional happiness in this new phase of his career," the club stated in the official announcement.
Zainadine Júnior's departure comes after a season in which his playing time was reduced. The central defender, who was an undisputed starter for several years, played only nine games in the 2023/24 season. This decline in the number of games may have influenced his decision to seek new challenges.
Zainadine joined Marítimo in January 2017 and, throughout his stay, made 220 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing six assists. His time at the club is marked by strong leadership, being one of the captains of the 'green-and-red' team.
At 36 years old, Zainadine Júnior also has a solid international career, having represented the Mozambique national team 62 times. Before his time at Marítimo, he played for Grupo Desportivo de Maputo and Liga Desportiva de Maputo in Mozambique, as well as Nacional in Portugal and Tianjin Teda in China.
Zainadine Júnior's departure marks the end of an era at Marítimo, where he left a legacy of dedication and professionalism. The football community eagerly awaits to see what the next step will be in the career of this talented central defender.
