Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit University of Pretoria FC have announced Michael Loftman as their new coach, replacing Kwanele Kopo, who recently left the club.
Loftman joins the Tshwane side after parting ways with ABC Motsepe League side Hout Bay United. After AmaTuks finished 11th on the National First Division table last season, they have turned to Loftman to lead their bid to return to the Betway Premiership.
The Briton arrives at AmaTuks armed with local football experience, having previously worked at Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. He was an analyst at Pirates and also coached their DStv Diski Challenge side. It is at the Buccaneers where he met Rulani Mokwena, and the two were reunited at Masandawana, where Loftman was the set-play coach.
The 35-year-old also boasts international football experience, having served as a performance manager with the Egypt national team. In North Africa, he worked under Carlos Quieiroz, who was being assisted by Roger de Sa.
Loftman is now at AmaTuks, who were relegated from the Betway Premiership at the end of the 2015/16 season and have struggled to return to the elite league. The Tshwane side will regroup on July 6 to kickstart their pre-season programme.
AMATUKS’ EMPHASIS ON CLUB AMBITION AFTER LOFTMAN RECRUITMENT
In explaining why they settled for Loftman, AmaTuks have not hidden their ambitions as they also underline their belief in the youthful coach.
“The University of Pretoria Football Club [AmaTuks] is proud to announce the appointment of Michael Loftman as its new head coach. Loftman joins AmaTuks with a strong reputation for player development, tactical excellence, and a commitment to building competitive, high-performing teams,” the club announced on Monday.
“His appointment reflects the club’s ambition to continue strengthening its football programme while maintaining its tradition of excellence both on and off the field. Loftman holds a UEFA Pro coaching license as well as a Masters in sports science.
“His history includes roles as a first team analyst, development coach and reserve team coach at Orlando Pirates FC, analyst for the Egyptian National Team, as well as technical coach at Mamelodi Sundowns FC. With his extensive experience at elite level and international football, AmaTuks management has confidence in Loftman’s ability to lead the team forward.
MICHAEL LOFTMAN’S PROMISE TO AMATUKS
Meanwhile, Loftman added: “It is a privilege to join a club with the rich history and strong football culture of AmaTuks.
“I am excited about the opportunity to work with this talented group of players and staff. Together, we will strive to build a competitive team that our supporters can be proud of.”
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