The Montego Bay United Football Club (MBU) and head coach Rodolfo Zapata have mutually agreed to part ways during the Wray & Nephew-sponsored Jamaica Premier League (JPL) second round of the 2024–25 season.
The announcement was made on both Zapata’s and the team’s social media pages this morning with a brief farewell message.
“We appreciate his dedication and contributions to the club and the Jamaica Premier League. Wishing him the best in his future endeavours,” MBU’s post stated.
It is uncertain at this time who will replace Zapata.
The announcement came as a shock to some supporters on social media, who have expressed their disbelief.
Zapata, who is from Argentina, was brought in in July 2024 to replace Brazilian Neider Dos Santos, who was let go at the end of last season.
Since Zapata’s signing, MBU—who finished seventh last season and missed the play-offs on goal difference—now sit third this season.
With this impressive run and a likely play-off spot, they have 13 wins, six draws, and four losses, putting them on 45 points.
This places them below second-place Arnett Gardens on 48 points and first-place Mount Pleasant on 55 points.
Zapata began his career as a professional football player in Argentina before earning a coaching degree and moving to North America, where he worked for the USA Olympic Development Program, coaching and identifying young talent for the US national team.
He has been a head coach for some of the biggest clubs in South Africa, Botswana, Nigeria, Kenya, and Rwanda, as well as the Fiji U20 national team.
He is also the founder of the Rolo Zapata Academy for boys and girls in Argentina.
On Thursday, MBU drew 1-1 with Cavalier Soccer Club in an away game.
MBU’s next match will be on Monday, February 17, at the Montego Bay Sports Complex as part of a double-header against Tivoli Gardens.
– Ashley Anguin
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