Orlando Pirates DStv Diski Challenge head coach Joseph Makhanya has opened up on the links with a promotion to the senior team.
Makhanya’s name was said to have been thrown in the hat for an assistant coach role following Sergio Almenara’s departure at the end of the season.
He had a commendable season with the Buccaneers’ reserves, culminating in a third-place finish for the 2023/24 campaign.
Nevertheless, the club opted to appoint Carlos Nodar Paz, who now fulfills the dual roles of Strength and Conditioning coach as well as assistant coach
When asked about any approach from the club regarding the first team position, Makhanya remained guarded, expressing that he was still in the process of learning and was not in a hurry to make a significant career move
He further stressed that he doesn’t want to take shortcuts as he continues to acquire knowledge.
WHAT MAKHANYA SAID WHEN ASKED ABOUT PIRATES’ SENIOR TEAM RUMOURS
“Now, it’s not about rushing because we still have got capable people that side,” said Makhanya.
“We still have got coach Mandla Ncikazi, we still have got coach Junior Bhengu. It’s not about rushing to be there.
“It’s still a learning process for myself so that at least I can still learn the game better so that if that time does come, I’m ready to assist in terms of my knowledge as well and understanding the game.
“You don’t want to go there and just be a number. You want to go there and have a bit of influence on how the team is supposed to play.
“Coach Mandla is already doing that, so why replicate situation rather than me staying this side and making sure that I also take my lesson as well.
“So, I’m an upcoming coach, still trying to learn a few things cause transitioning from being a player to a coach is a totally different thing.
“I’m happy with a process as well cause sometimes we run away from the process, we cut corners and find yourself being on top but incompetent.
“I want to make sure that I see out the process as well and grow gradually into becoming a coach that can assist cause once you go that side the pressure is on.
“That side, it’s about winning matches and trophies, so can I start here and win trophies here before maybe I can be considered.
“I’m still in a learning phase.”
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