South African coach Owen Da Gama has explained why he recently turned down opportunities in Zambia and Ghana as he eyes a local project.
The veteran tactician, whose coaching career spans more than three decades, told FARPost that his experience in Botswana has left him reluctant to pursue opportunities elsewhere on the continent for now.
Da Gama, who has coached clubs including Platinum Stars, Highlands Park, TS Galaxy and Orlando Pirates, said issues surrounding unpaid salaries during his time in Botswana continue to weigh heavily on his decision-making. He coached Gaborone side Black Lions and left them in 11th position. The man who replaced Da Gama, Serbian mentor Srdjan Zivojinov, oversaw the team’s relegation.
“I think the most important thing is that I’m coming from Botswana, where I had a bad experience regarding the payment of salaries. When things go wrong in another country, you often find yourself wondering where to turn for help,” Da Gama told FARPost.
“At the moment, it is still a very sensitive issue for me to go outside South Africa for employment. There is the current situation in South Africa regarding foreigners. For now, it’s simply a sensitive matter for me to consider working outside the country. Once things settle down, perhaps we can revisit that, but at this stage I would prefer to remain in South Africa.”
The former South Africa U-23 coach, who guided the national team at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, says he remains eager to return to the dugout and believes he still has plenty to offer clubs in the Betway Premiership.
DA GAMA READY TO RETURN TO DUGOUT
Da Gama has built a reputation as a football firefighter, notably saving TS Galaxy and most recently Magesi FC [2024/25] from relegation while also guiding Highlands Park back to the Premiership at the first attempt following their demotion.
“I’ve had a good break and an opportunity to refresh myself. I’ve watched almost 90 percent of the World Cup matches, and my enthusiasm for coaching remains very strong. I believe I can help teams gain promotion to the Premier League or become more competitive in the Premier League.
“My record speaks for itself. I have promoted four teams to the Premier League and helped several clubs avoid relegation and establish themselves in strong positions. I was named Coach of the Year in South Africa in 2006 and have won numerous Coach of the Month awards throughout my career.
“I still feel strong and ready. A coach needs to be mentally and physically fit, and I believe I am in a very good space to take on any challenge.”
With the 2026/27 season fast approaching and several clubs expected to reassess their technical benches in the coming months, Da Gama has made it clear that he is ready should the right opportunity arise.
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