Joel Masutha has explained his decision to leave Kruger United for The Bees, revealing that pressing family issues forced him to request an early exit from the Betway Premiership side.
Masutha parted ways with Kruger United just three months after joining the Mpumalanga-based outfit from Motsepe Foundation Championship club The Bees FC.
“I asked to be released from Kruger United’s contract, mainly because of personal issues,” Masutha told FARPost. “There had been serious family issues that had been affecting me. Unfortunately, these things started while I was still at The Bees, and I got enough days off to attend to the situation. So things have just been bothering and disturbing me.”
Masutha’s departure comes during a challenging start to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign for Kruger United. Working alongside head coach Abram Mongoya, Masutha witnessed the club secure just one victory, one draw, and five defeats from their opening seven league fixtures. The run leaves Kruger United sitting 13th on the Betway Premiership log with four points.
The 54-year-old tactician emphasised that he chose to step aside voluntarily to protect the team’s focus during a critical period on the pitch.
NO FRICTION WITH KRUGER TECHNICAL TEAM
“Looking at Kruger being in the Betway Premiership and not in a stable position on the log, I felt that I needed to vacate the position,” Masutha explained. “It was for me to think about myself and my family. I was never pushed out; it came from me, and it’s only me who approached them.”
The former Black Leopards, Chippa United, and Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila [TTM] head coach also dismissed rumours suggesting friction between him and the technical team.
“I can say I enjoyed myself; I had a good time with everyone, especially the technical team,” Masutha added. “What unbelievable human beings—very good people who are also workaholics. I felt welcomed by the whole management; all the people I met were accommodating, and the players were welcoming. I still believe the team will do very well, and people must not be surprised if they finish in the top eight.”
Following his departure from Kruger United, Masutha has made a swift return to second-tier side The Bees FC as head coach on a deal running until the end of the season. He previously helped The Bees survive relegation before his short stint in the top flight. He succeeds Duncan Lechesa, who recently departed following a sluggish start to the campaign, and officially took charge of training on Thursday, 8 October.
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