Football fans were left shocked by the decision to reshuffle the coaching staff of Mamelodi Sundowns earlier this week. A report released by Sundowns stated that Rulani Mokwena is the new head coach.
He will be assisted by Steve Komphela and Manqoba Mgqithi respectively. This decision was taken by Sundowns after being eliminated by Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 Cup. Pirates beat them by 3-0 in the semifinal second leg match held at the Peter Mokaba Stadium last weekend.
The Sundowns management gave Mngqithi, Mokwena and Komphela the responsibility of coaching after the departure of Pitso Mosimane who went to Al Ahly in Egypt more than two years ago.
Many people expressed their displeasure with the decision but Mike Makaab, who is Mngqithi’s manager, said the coach has no problem with the decision taken.
Manqoba was relegated after the humiliation of Sundowns in the MTN8 and their performance this season. Although the last word came from Mngqithi, they worked together as coaches.
According to Makaab, his coach informed him of the changes after a meeting between Sundowns management and coaches. “The coaches were called to a meeting where everything was tabled,” said Makaab to the KwaZulu-Natal radio station.
“Manqoba did not stumble. We both talked about this for a long time. As a reasonable person, he accepted the management’s decision because the team was not performing well. Even though the decision is painful, the team will get full support from Manqoba,” said Makaab.
His contract with Sundowns expires at the end of the current season. Sundowns will meet Royal AM in the DStv Premiership match which will be held at Chatsworth Stadium at 6pm on Saturday.
After their defeat, they will fight for a win in preparation for the Carling Black Label Cup which will be played next month on the 12th (November 12). At the beginning of the week, Sundowns thrashed Maritzburg United who are struggling this season.
IBig Brother Mzansi iza kuqala ngoJanuwari