BELMOPAN, Tues. Feb. 9, 2021– The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) is pleased to welcome Johny El Zein to the National Senior team.

Johny El Zein, otherwise known as Zein, holds both Cyprian and Belizean citizenships. He was born in Dubai to a Belizean father. Zein started playing football at a very young age and was scouted by Manchester United development squad after winning the tournament and the MVP title for his school. His football development continued with the Manchester United Academy. He also received a trial for the Manchester U16. After leaving Manchester, his football career continued as he formed a part of the Enosis Neon Paralimni U17 and U21 selections.

His career continued after he moved to Dubai as he played in the Dubai sevens league with notable players for the All Stars FC Dubai. Zein’s return to Cyprus came as a result of signing a contract with Ethnicos Achnas FC, Cyprus’ first division, and continued with Enosis Neon Paralimni FC. While playing with them he had the opportunity of playing with notable players like Sito Riera and Gonzalo Zarate.

Currently, Zein plays with Cyprus’ Aris Limassol with whom he signed a three-year contract. He mainly plays attacking midfield behind the striker or on the flank.

Zein’s agent shared that he is a fast paced, dynamic attacking midfielder with great technical ability (playmaker), fast skills and good touch, making it difficult for defenders to mark.

During an interview session with Zein he expressed that he is honored to have been called up for the Belizean National Team.

– press release –

(AMANDALA Sports Ed. Note: “Hope we be no more strangers!” Welcome to the Jewel, kid! With the extended period of inactivity on the local football scene due to Covid-19 restrictions, the FFB has been recruiting heavily from our diaspora in preparation for World Cup Qualifiers which begin in late March. We asked the FFB for some family background details on Zein’s father, from whom he gained his Belizean citizenship.)