Vusi Vilakazi extends stay at Richards Bay after successful Premiership rescue

Richards Bay FC chairman Jomo Biyela has kept his word, handing head coach Vusi Vilakazi a contract that keeps him at the club next season.

Vilakazi was instrumental in securing the club’s DStv Premiership status after successfully guiding them during the playoffs.

Affectionately known as ‘Kanu’, he took over the reins mid-season and not only steered the team through a turbulent period but also significantly improved their performance, culminating in a dominant victory in the promotion/relegation playoffs.

After the playoffs, the club’s boss, Biyela, expressed his delight at retaining Vilakazi, highlighting his ability to galvanise the squad and instil a winning mentality.

The former Golden Arrows mentor, in turn, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and the trust placed in him. He emphasised his eagerness to continue building the team and implementing his football philosophy during the upcoming pre-season.

FARPost has established that the young coach will be in charge of the club again after signing a contract with the club this week. He has been handed what is thought to be a short-term deal with an option to extend at the end of the 2024/25 DStv Premiership season.

WHAT VUSI VILAKAZI PLEDGED TO DO AT RICHARDS BAY

While Vilakazi admitted to adopting a pragmatic approach during the playoffs, he made it clear that his long-term vision is to develop a more attractive and possession-based style of play. With a full pre-season to work with the players, he could now be in a position to shape the team in his image.

This contract extension comes as a well-deserved reward for Vilakazi, who has consistently demonstrated his coaching acumen and tactical nous. His commitment to professional development, as evidenced by his ongoing participation in a CAF B License course, further underscores his dedication to the sport.

Meanwhile, the club has signed Siyethemba Sithebe on a free transfer after his exit from Kaizer Chiefs. The club’s goalkeeper, Salim Magoola, also committed his future to the club after signing a new three-year deal. The development puts an end to speculation about his future.

RELATED STORY: Vusi Vilakazi’s Richards Bay FC contract expires, what’s next?