Durban outfit Royal AM have announced a new coaching structure ahead of the 2022/23 season.
The club has roped in Dan Malesela to work with newly appointed Khabo Zondo and Abram Nteo. The trio are expected to function as co-coaches.
The newest member of the ‘Thwihli Thwahla’ technical team is Malesela, who was surprisingly let go by Marumo Gallants at the end of last season, despite reaching the Nedbank Cup final and surviving relegation.
The 57-year-old, initially linked to the job left by John Maduka at Royal AM before Zondo’s appointment, completes what almost looks like the Mamelodi Sundowns structure. The DStv Premiership champions have Manqoba Mngqithi and Rulani Mokwena as co-coaches, while Steve Komphela is a Senior Coach.
Royal AM president Shauwn Mkhize explained the new structure: “I’ve changed the structure where we’re not having one coach. We’re having co-coaches.”
She added that the club would have three co-coaches. “I’ve changed the structure where we’re not having one coach. We’re having co-coaches. Their former assistant from GladAfrica is co-coach.”
She is convinced that the combination of the trio will maintain the team’s attractive playing style from last season. “Rome was never built in one day; these three coaches are going to bring different dimensions of football. They’ll agree to disagree to get results. When I interviewed all my coaches that came through, I was very clear. I do not change the style of play.
“We’ve got speed, we’ve got endurance. When you go forward, you close your eyes. I want to create an identity, which means I don’t want to change our style.”
The businesswoman, popularly referred to as ‘MaMkhize, said she had been in talks with Malesela. “I’ve been speaking to Dan. I was not looking for a coach. If John Maduka had stayed, I’d not have changed.”
Asked why Maduka left, she said she was still in the dark as they shared a good relationship. “I’m happy because things are coming together,” she added.
The club has also announced the purchase of a senior Women’s Team franchise. The club will be known as Royal AM Ladies.
“I’m happy because female players are overlooked, yet they are the country’s future.” Meanwhile, the club announced the signings of Lesvin Stoffels, Shane Roberts and Philani Cele.
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