Manfred Zapf was in the East German team that won the bronze medal at the 1972 München Olympics, following a 2-2 draw, after extra-time, against the Soviet Union. During the period of extra-time, neither team tried to win, because they knew a draw would secure both of them a medal. Zapf was also a member of the 1974 World Cup squad that enjoyed a surprising 1-0 win over West Germany, although he was not used in the match for tactical reasons.

Zapf played 12 international matches between 1969-75, and also played four matches with the GDR Olympic team. Domestically, he played with 1.FC Magdeburg until 1985. He helped Magdeburg win the East German Championship in 1972, and 1974-75, and also the East German Cup five times in 1965, 1969, 1973, 1978-79. His greatest moment came in 1974, when Magdeburg won the European Cup Winners’ Cup 2-0 against AC Milano from Italy.

Zapf became general secretary of the East German national team until 1990, and was also the GDR national coach in 1989 for six international matches, before going back to 1.FC Magdeburg after reunification, as chief officer.