Amazonas FC has appointed Cristian Ziani de Souza as the new head coach for the remainder of the 2026 season. The 48-year-old manager steps in just days before the Amazonense Championship final, which will take place this weekend against Nacional FC.
Cristian Souza: A Seasoned Football Coach
Souza brings substantial experience, having previously led Manauara to the final of the Amazonense Championship in 2023. In that match, his team finished as runners-up to Amazonas FC. In 2024, he had a brief stint with Manaus FC and most recently managed Joinville in Santa Catarina.
Coaching Background
Originally from Quaraí, Rio Grande do Sul, Souza has a diverse coaching history across regional and national leagues. His past tenures include:
- Esportivo-RS
- Pelotas-RS
- Ceará SC
- CSA-AL
- Botafogo-PB
- Luverdense-MT
- Marcílio Dias-SC
These experiences have prepared him for the challenges of handling Amazonas FC.
Statements and Expectations
In an interview, Cristian Souza expressed his enthusiasm for taking charge of the team during this critical stage. He stated, “I am motivated and well aware of the football reality in Amazonas. I see at the club an opportunity for growth and maturity. It’s a team capable of returning to Série B, and I am ready for this challenge.”
Souza will be officially introduced to the team on Sunday, February 15, when he will also lead his first training session. His debut match is set to be the decisive showdown against Nacional FC for the championship title of the Amazonense Championship 2026.
