AmaZulu FC have moved swiftly to appoint Vusumuzi Vilakazi as their new assistant coach following the dismissal of head coach Pablo Franco Martin and his assistant Aitor Van Den Brule.
However, this appointment comes amidst ongoing uncertainty surrounding the future of Magesi FC head coach Clinton Larsen, who remains AmaZulu’s primary target for the top job.
While the Durban outfit has set its sights on Larsen, Vilakazi’s arrival signals a potential interim solution. ‘Kanu,’ as he is known, is expected to fill the vacancy left by Van Den Brule and could potentially lead the team’s preparations for the upcoming Carling Knockout Cup next weekend.
This marks a swift return to the top-flight for Vilakazi, who recently parted ways with Richards Bay FC after successfully guiding them through the PSL Promotional/Relegation Playoffs.
The former Golden Arrows coach brings a wealth of experience, having also served as head coach for both Lamontville Golden Arrows and Richards Bay. A holder of a CAF B License, Vilakazi is renowned for his tactical acumen and ability to nurture young talent, evidenced by his success in leading the Arrows reserve team to two DStv Diski Challenge titles.
Since Martin’s exit, the team has been training under assistant coach Siboniso Vilakazi.
COULD VUSUMUZI VILAKAZI BE MORE THAN JUST A STOP-GAP?
With Larsen still contracted to Magesi FC, despite strong links to the vacant AmaZulu head coach position, the situation remains fluid.
Larsen signed a new contract with Magesi, and reports suggest the Limpopo club is battling to retain him amidst persistent interest from AmaZulu. This delay in finalising AmaZulu’s coaching appointments raises the possibility of Vilakazi taking on a more prominent role, at least in the short term.
AmaZulu’s decision to part ways with Martin came after a disastrous start to the season, with the Durban-based side suffering three consecutive defeats in their opening three matches, leaving them languishing at the bottom of the DStv Premiership table.
The club will be hoping that the appointment of Vilakazi, and the potential arrival of Larsen, will spark a dramatic turnaround. With Vilakazi’s experience and Larsen’s proven track record in South African football, AmaZulu fans will be eager to see a swift climb up the league table.
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