Marumo Gallants boss Abram Sello has shed light on the club’s decision to trust Phuti Mohafe with the head coaching role ahead of the upcoming 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.
Bahlabane Ba Ntwa announced the appointment of Mohafe last month as they look to establish stability in the top flight.
Mohafe made the switch to the Bloemfontein-based outfit from Polokwane City FC, where he spent the past few seasons. During his tenure with Rise and Shine, he turned the Limpopo-based side into a competitive club, making them a regular feature in the top eight of the South African elite league.
The 52-year-old mentor takes over the reins from Jamil Benouahi, who had a short-lived tenure at the club. The former AS FAR assistant coach joined Gallants in March following the departure of Frenchman Alexandre Lafitte, but only oversaw two matches in the dugout.
Benouahi’s stint got off to a rocky start with a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Magesi FC at the Seshego Stadium on April 7, followed by a 1-1 draw against Orbit College FC at the Dr Molemela Stadium on April 12. He was subsequently sidelined from the touchline, with the club citing ill health as the main reason.
ABRAM SELLO ON PHUTI MOHAFE’S APPOINTMENT
Speaking to reporters during the 2026 Mafori Cup launch at the Ranch Resort on Tuesday, July 14, Sello expressed his confidence in Mohafe’s capabilities.
“You know, being a coach is a very challenging job. As you can see, people go in for two to three months and then leave their posts. So, we were searching as well, and also looking for a coach who wants to be with us, just as we want to be with him,” said Sello.
“We wish him all the best, and I hope it will be home sweet home for him. Hopefully, we will achieve more than what we are targeting.”
Sello went on to assure the newly appointed head coach of the club’s full backing, pointing to Mohafe’s track record of top-eight finishes as a key factor in their decision.
“We are more patient with most of the coaches we have, so we will give him 100% support and be patient with him. He is an experienced local coach and knows what he is doing,” he added.
“He’s a coach who always finishes in the top eight, and we wish to be in the top eight as well. Also, what he promises to deliver is definitely up to scratch, and we will definitely be there.”
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