Italian Vincenzo Annese Appointed as New Head Coach of Afghanistan National Football Team

The Afghanistan national football team has appointed Italian coach Vincenzo Alberto Annese as its new head coach. Annese, an experienced football manager from Italy, will be leading the team as they prepare for their upcoming matches in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers.

Transition from Former Coach Usmon Toshev

Samir Homayouni, the team manager, confirmed to TOLOnews that Annese has been selected to replace the outgoing coach, Usmon Toshev from Uzbekistan. Toshev recently resigned from his position, although the Afghan Football Federation has not disclosed the reasons behind his departure.

Preparation for Upcoming Matches in Saudi Arabia

Currently in Italy, Vincenzo Annese is expected to join the Afghan national team’s training camp in Saudi Arabia very soon. This camp is a crucial stage in the team’s preparation for their next qualifier match against Syria, scheduled for June 9, 2025.

Player Selection Announcement Imminent

The team manager also revealed that the official list of national players selected for the Saudi Arabia training camp and the upcoming match will be announced today, Tuesday, May 27, 2025. This list will include the squad members who will represent Afghanistan in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers.

Contract Details Remain Confidential

Homayouni declined to provide any information regarding the terms or duration of Vincenzo Annese’s contract with the Afghan Football Federation, keeping the specifics under wraps.

AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Outlook

Afghanistan is placed in a competitive group alongside Myanmar, Pakistan, and Syria in the qualifiers for the AFC Asian Cup 2027. Under Annese’s leadership, the team aims to improve its performance and secure a spot in the prestigious continental tournament.

This new coaching appointment marks a significant step for Afghan football as the team looks forward to revitalizing its strategies and achieving success on the Asian football stage