Rodolfo Zapata (born 1 May 1966) is an Argentine-American professional football manager. He holds Argentine Football Association and CONMEBOL PRO coaching licenses.
Zapata began his playing career as a goalkeeper in the Argentinian 2nd division. He played for Huracán, Sportivo Italiano, Racing de OlavarrÃÂa, Club Atlético San Miguel and Cipolletti de Rio Negro. His career ended prematurely due to a knee injury, after which he transitioned to coaching.
In 2000, Zapata taught seminars for coaches and players development in the cities of Calgary and Edmonton that were promoted by Alberta Soccer Association. He also planned and coordinated activities of coaching staff.
In 2001, he was head coach of United Nations International School in New York City.
Also in New York and New Jersey, he was head coach of USA Olympic Development Program (2001âÂÂ2009), national process for identifying and developing youth football players to represent the United States in international competitions.
In September 2012, Zapata returned to the United States as head coach of United States Youth Soccer Association and New Jersey Youth Soccer Association. His role was the identification and recruitment of young players.
In January 2010, he was based in Akure as head coach of Nigeria Professional Football League side Sunshine Stars FC.
In 2011âÂÂ2012 season, Rodolfo was appointed as head coach of MP Black Aces FC in South Africa.
From 2016âÂÂ2018, Zapata was head coach of Gaborone United in the Botswana Premier League. The club suffered financial and internal politics troubles during his time. He contributed to the progress of fifteen U23 players into the first team, while avoiding relegation.
In May 2018, AFC Leopards announced Rodolfo Zapata as their new head coach for the remainder of the Kenyan Premier League season.
In 2019, he was appointed as the new head coach of Township Rollers FC in Botswana.
Rodolfo Zapata won the 2018âÂÂ2019 edition of the Botswana Premier League with his club. As a result, Township Rollers qualified for the 2019âÂÂ2020 Africa Champions League. As head coach of Township Rollers FC, Zapata oversaw a possession-based and attacking style of play.
In March 2021, Rodolfo joined Mukura Victory Sports in Rwanda Premier League.
After his experience in Rwanda, Zapata signed as head coach of Fiji team for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Rodolfo Zapata joined Montego Bay United for 2024âÂÂ25.