Sekhukhune United have taken a decision on head coach Lehlohonolo Seema that raises questions about his future with the club.
Seema joined Babina Noko on 20 November 2023 as a replacement for Brandon Truter.
At the time, Sekhukhune were in 10th place in the league, having amassed 11 points in nine matches. Seema oversaw 24 matches across all competitions, securing nine wins, 10 draws, and five losses.
In the league, where they are still to play two more games before the curtain comes down on the 2023/24 DStv Premiership season, the club is currently in fourth place with 42 points.
As a result of Sekhukhune’s good displays, Seema was named the DStv Premiership Coach of the Month for February/March. The award was Seema’s first as a coach.
Under the guidance of Seema, Sekhukhune, at some stage, were unbeaten for two months, winning five successive matches, scoring 11 goals and conceding just three.
WHAT DECISION DID SEKHUKHUNE UNITED MAKE ON LEHLOHONOLO SEEMA?
FARPost has established that Seema has been placed on “special leave”. A senior player at the club confirmed that management had communicated the decision with them on Tuesday.
The decision to place Seema on leave comes at a crucial juncture in the season, with Sekhukhune United fighting for a top-four finish. Assistant coach MacDonald Makhubedu has been tasked with steering the ship for the remainder of the season. But the long-term implications of Seema’s absence remain unclear.
According to the senior player, this could be the end of the road for Seema at Sekhukhune United, with the “special leave” serving as a precursor to a more permanent separation.
“We were told that head coach Lehlohonolo Seema has been placed on special leave for the remainder of the season. Management also told us that MacDonald Makhubedu will take over as interim coach until a permanent replacement is found,” the source told FARPost.
Seema’s contract was set to expire at the end of the season, with an option for renewal. However, the club’s decision suggests that they are unlikely to exercise this option.
The reasons for Seema’s sudden departure have not been disclosed. Makhubedu, who served as an assistant, will be tasked with steadying the ship and ensuring a strong finish to the season.
Seema led Sekhukhune in their debut continental appearance, the 2023/24 CAF Confederation Cup. Sekhukhune put in a respectable performance, securing third place in their group stage.
The team, coached by Seema, gathered six points from their six matches. They recorded one win, three draws, and two defeats in Group D.
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