Marumo Gallants place Malesela on ‘special leave’ amidst Arrows claims
Marumo Gallants on Wednesday announced their head coach, Dan “Dance” Malesela, was on special leave amidst links with Golden Arrows. Malesela has not been with the Bloemfontein-based Gallants this week.
The former Chippa United and TS Galaxy coach reportedly left after the 1-0 loss to Polokwane City FC on Sunday. Bahlabane ba Ntwa are preparing for their next league clash against Orlando Pirates on Tuesday next week.
However, training sessions have continued this week without the head coach’s presence. His absence has sparked speculation around interest from Arrows. Abafana Bes’thende’s coach, Mabhuti Khenyeza, recently went AWOL, according to the Lamontville outfit.
When asked about the links with Arrows, Malesela vehemently denied. He told FARPost: “I’ve got some issues to attend to at home.”
Under Malesela’s guidance, Gallants have struggled to maintain consistent performance in the Betway Premiership.
The team is currently placed 12th on the log, having secured three wins, one draw, and five losses from their nine matches. Interestingly, the club has added former Casric Stars coach Sundra Govinder as a second assistant. Duncan Lechesa has served as first assistant since the start of the season.
NEW COACHING ADDITION AT MARUMO GALLANTS
In a statement released on Wednesday, the club confirmed the appointment of Sundra Govender as the club’s additional Assistant Coach. “This appointment is part of the club’s strategic plan to strengthen the technical department,” the statement read.
“Govender comes with a wealth of experience in the soccer industry, including his last position as head coach of the Motsepe Foundation Championship side, Casric Stars. Govender has already arrived in Bloemfontein to immediately start his job.
“He will work closely with Duncan Lechesa in the absence of Dan Malesela, who is currently on special leave attending to urgent family matters.”
Gallants are scheduled to face Orlando Pirates on December 24th at Orlando Stadium, followed by a match against Sekhukhune United on the 28th at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
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