Motsepe Foundation Championship side Baroka FC is reportedly moving swiftly to secure a replacement for suspended head coach Dan Malesela, with The Bees coach Humphrey Mlwane emerging as a prime target.
Under fire Upington City FC coach Abram Mangoya is also reportedly a candidate with his exit from the Northern Cape club looming.
Baroka FC chairman Kurishi Mphahlele confirmed on Monday that Malesela and his assistant, Job Maphutha, have been placed on immediate suspension following a dismal run of results that has left the Limpopo club languishing in the relegation zone.
“We’ve suspended the coach and the assistant,” confirmed Baroka chairman Kurishi Mphahlele, who told FARPost a new man is imminent. “The business must go on for me and him and the team… Someone will take over very soon until we finish the disciplinary process.”
The suspension, which follows a streak of five matches without a win, including a recent 2-0 defeat to the University of Pretoria on Saturday, has intensified the search for a new coach, and sources suggest Mlwane has been sounded out for the opportunity.
BAROKA’S STRUGGLE IN THE MOTSEPE FOUNDATION CHAMPIONSHIP
Mlwane, a former Kaizer Chiefs and Moroka Swallows midfielder, has impressed in his current role with The Bees, who have enjoyed a solid start to their campaign. His side is currently in fifth place on the Motsepe Foundation Championship log after seven games, having secured three wins and two draws.
Baroka FC, in contrast, sits in 15th position, having only managed one win and one draw in their seven league fixtures.
The club’s recent results paint a bleak picture. They lost 2-0 to the University of Pretoria, 2-0 to Milford FC, a 2-1 defeat to newly promoted Gomora United, a 1-1 draw with Casric Stars, and a 1-0 loss to Highbury.
On the other hand, Mangoya is expected to be axed by Upington City FC, as his disciplinary matter is nearly resolved. He was charged with misconduct for accepting a role with the Lesotho national team, which caused him to miss club duties while attending international matches.
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