Former Chippa United sporting director Sinesipho Mali has broken the silence on his abrupt exit from the Eastern Cape-based side halfway through the season.
Mali spent six months with Chippa after arriving at the start of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season. The former Kaizer Chiefs scout made history by becoming the first-ever sporting director at the club, where he oversaw its holistic operations, including player recruitment.
Mali arrived at Chippa after stepping down from his position as head of analysis and scouting at Sekhukhune United. His appointment was aimed at building a strong, competitive team capable of challenging big clubs for trophies. However, Chippa has struggled to achieve positive results.
As it stands, the Chilli Boys are fighting relegation, sitting 16th in the league table with only nine points from 15 matches. United has registered one win, six draws, and eight defeats, a form they will be looking to change in the second round of the season to climb up the standings.
After the dismal start to the season, Chippa has already fired three coaches: Sinethemba Badela, Musa Nyatama, and Luc Eymael. They currently have Vusumuzi Vilakazi, who is in his second stint with the club, having been at the helm a few seasons ago.
SINESIPHO MALI BIDS FAREWELL TO CHIPPA UNITED
As previously reported by FARPost, Chippa decided to relieve Mali of his duties, but they have yet to make an official announcement on his exit. Mali has bid farewell to Chippa United in a message to the players and technical team members, saying the club will always have his support.
“I’d like to thank every one of you guys for the amazing time together, lessons and memories created, your professionalism, respect towards me, and trust in my leadership,” Mali said.
“I’ll always cherish the time together, and you’ll forever remain special in my heart; I’ve officially left the club, but my support remains with you in spirit. Please continue to focus, work hard, and let’s do all we can to save this amazing club [from relegation]. Do it for the Eastern Cape and your careers, you’ll always have my support. Love always, guys, see you soon.”
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