Darren Abdilla has been appointed head coach of Gżira United after Clive Mizzi resigned on Sunday following a spell of negative results. The move marks Abdilla’s third stint in charge of the Maroons, following previous terms between 2014 and 2019 and again from 2020 to 2024.
Abdilla was the favourite from the beginning, as first reported by Malta Sport on Sunday. Mizzi’s departure comes after a winless start to the campaign that has left Gżira at the foot of the table with three points from seven matches. The club acted swiftly to bring back Abdilla, a familiar figure who had previously guided Gżira through domestic and European campaigns.
Abdilla joins on the back of a productive season with Floriana. Appointed in the summer of 2024, he led the Greens to victory in the Opening Round of the Malta Premier League, a third-place finish in the league, a run to the FA Trophy semi-finals and qualification for the UEFA Conference League. At the end of last season, he confirmed he would not continue at the club.
Meanwhile, Mizzi posted a public message on Facebook thanking the club and supporters. “Thank you, President Sharlon Pace, for the opportunity you gave me again. Unfortunately, together with my colleagues, I did not manage to deliver the results the club wanted. Thanks to everyone who stood by me, the committee, the staff and all Gżira supporters who are understandably hurt right now. Although some attacked me personally, my staff and the players, we accept criticism, but always stand behind the players. Finally, my thanks go to all the players. I am confident you are capable of taking the team where it deserves to be. Forza Maroons.” Club president Sharlon Pace replied publicly, praising Mizzi’s conduct and commitment
A return to a club he knows well gives Abdilla a platform to act with clarity from the outset. Gżira will look to his familiarity with the squad and league to generate a response, while supporters will hope his third spell brings renewed discipline, structure and results.
The immediate task is to steady Gżira’s form and lift the side away from danger. Abdilla’s first assignment is on Thursday, 2 October, against Mosta, offering a quick opportunity to set a new tone.
