AmaZulu FC has executed a major overhaul of its youth development structures, confirming the departures of five key technical staff members, including the Youth Technical Director and the DStv Diski Challenge [DDC] coach.
The move signals a comprehensive restructuring as the club looks to realign its junior coaching philosophy. Usuthu officially confirmed the immediate parting of ways with Celokuhle Mbanjwa [Youth Technical Director], Mncedisi ‘Dada’ Sibiya [DDC Coach], Andile ‘Sguda’ Cele [Under-19 coach], Musa Langa [goalkeeper coach] and Nqoba Mdladla [U-15 Coach]
While the exact reasons for the mass exodus remain undisclosed, sources close to the club suggest deep-seated dissatisfaction at the highest level regarding the overall direction of the youth structures.
AMAZULU CONFIRMS FIVE DEPARTURES
The exit of DDC coach Sibiya comes just over a year after he joined Usuthu in October 2024. Sibiya, who arrived with a reputation built from his time at the Orlando Pirates’ feeder team, Pele Pele, replaced Vusi Vilakazi.
Under Sibiya’s tutelage this season, the KZN side won just four of their 12 DDC games, suffering five losses, a record that is believed to have contributed to the shake-up.
Equally significant is the dismissal of Mbanjwa, who oversaw the technical philosophy and long-term strategy of the entire youth academy. His firing, along with that of four of his key team coaches, strongly indicates a mandate for change from the club’s hierarchy.
Cele, who represented Orlando Pirates, Golden Arrows, and AmaZulu before an injury ended his playing career, is another high-profile casualty. Cele had been working his way up the coaching ranks, most recently guiding the U19 team.
AmaZulu’s Director of Football, Pedro Dias, offered a brief comment on the club’s website, thanking the departing staff for their service. “We wish them all the best in their future endeavours and thank them for their commitment to the club,” said Dias.
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