Cape Verde coach takes club job in Morocco

Bubista, the coach who guided Cape Verde to the knockout stages of their first-ever World Cup, has accepted a new role as head coach for Moroccan club Renaissance Berkane. The club announced the appointment on Tuesday, concluding protracted negotiations that had considered the possibility of Bubista juggling both roles.

While contract details were not disclosed, media reports suggest the 56-year-old coach is expected to step down from his position with the Cape Verde national team in the coming days. This move comes after a successful tenure that saw Cape Verde make a significant impact on the international stage.

Renaissance Berkane has a strong recent record, winning the Moroccan league in 2025 and finishing as runners-up this year. The club also reached the semi-finals of the African Champions League last season and will compete in the top continental competition again in the upcoming campaign.

Bubista, whose real name is Pedro Leitao Brito, earned the African Coach of the Year award in 2025. This recognition followed his achievement in securing World Cup qualification for Cape Verde. At the tournament, the team achieved notable draws against Spain and Uruguay before being eliminated by Argentina in extra time during the Round of 32.