Chiquinho Conde: Mozambique FA step up contract renewal talks

The Football Federation of Mozambique (FMF) has dropped a strong hint of a possible renewal of Chiquinho Conde’s contract as the national team coach.

The 60-year-old’s three-year contract expired on Saturday, with FMF declaring him a free agent, and refusing to guarantee his retention.

However, with the opinion in Mozambique football circles clearly favouring the renewal of his deal, the federation has released a statement confirming that negotiations with the coach are underway.

 

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“The Football Federation hereby informs its governing bodies, the media, and the general public that it has initiated the formal negotiation process with Mr. Francisco Querol Conde Junior (Chiquinho Conde) regarding his continued tenure as national team coach,”’ reads part of the statement.

“Both parties share an interest in continuing the work developed for the benefit of the national team. However, in light of the information circulating in some media outlets and social networks regarding the aforementioned contract, the federation reaffirms that the process is autonomous and rigorously managed institutionally.”

FMF provides update on Conde’s contract talks

It adds: “The FMF further clarifies that the work is proceeding in an atmosphere of absolute tranquility and mutual respect. The federation’s strategic decisions are guided exclusively by sporting merit and the interests of the sport in Mozambique. The final results of this negotiation process will be announced through official channels. The FMF appeals for calm from all interested parties and for the responsible handling of sports information.”

The former Mambas striker led the team to the 2023 and 2025 AFCON finals. In the last edition in Morocco, Mozambique lost 1-0 to Ivory Coast and Cameroon (2-1) before beating Gabon 3-2 for the first-ever victory at the tournament.

The single victory secured them a Round-of-16 berth, again for the first time. Eventually, Mozambique lost 4-0 to Nigeria to exit the AFCON finals.

Conde took over from Horacio Goncalves in 2021 after his Portuguese predecessor was sacked after just six months in charge.