Mosimane issues ultimatum to Esteghlal over unpaid wages

Pitso Mosimane has reportedly given his Iranian side, Esteghlal FC, an ultimatum over unpaid wages. The relationship between the South African coach and the club could be over by the end of today if his salary issues are not resolved.

As reported by SABC Sport, Mosimane’s management team, MT Sports, had been in discussions with Esteghlal’s newly appointed management to address the outstanding payments that have been an ongoing issue in recent months.

Mosimane is in Iran with his backroom staff that includes Maheer Davids [assistant coach], Kabelo Rangoaga [Physical Conditioner], Kyle Solomons and Musi Matlaba [Performance Analysts].

Indications are that the entire bench has not been receiving their salaries. The matter has since been reported to FIFA.

The former Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana coach joined Esteghlal in October 2024. Currently 11th in the Iran Pro League with 19 points from 17 matches, they are only six points adrift of the top five.

WHAT PITSO MOSIMANE’S AGENT HAS SAID

MT Sports Managing Director Moira Tlhagale recently told the public broadcaster – SABC that the approach was to give the team time to resolve the issue.

“Up to now, the coaches have still not been paid; yesterday was Wednesday; I think it was day 15 according to the FIFA law, where you have a team 15 days to pay, or you’ve got the right to terminate.

“I have spoken to the coaches, and the decision for now is not yet to terminate, to give them more time because of the changes in the club’s management,” Tlhagale was quoted by SABC Sport.

The South African coach has previously won a case of non-payment at FIFA against his former Saudi Pro Division club Al Ahli, whom he promoted to the top division before being shown the exit door.

RELATED STORY: Mosimane loses key player due to Esteghlal’s financial struggles