‘He did not just lose a job’ – Zwane on Manqoba Mngqithi
Manqoba Mngqithi was given full control after Rulani Mokwena was fired but only lasted six months as Mamelodi Sundowns coach.
Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Siyanda Zwane has empathised with Manqoba Mngqithi.
The 53-year-old parted ways with Masandawana after 11 years with the club. Former Esperance coach Miguel De Azevedo Cardoso was named as Mngqithi’s replacement on Tuesday.
Manqoba Mngqithi joined Sundowns 11 years ago but served mostly as an assistant. In July, he was given full control after Rulani Mokwena was fired as head coach of the club. Despite topping the Betway Premiership, the former Golden Arrows mentor was given the boot mainly due to losing two cup competitions.
“I just feel bad for him because I know how much he loves that team, but he has the support of many people,” Siyanda Zwane told SNL24.
“One thing I know about him is that he has mastered emotional intelligence. Maybe he saw it coming and prepared his mind that something like this might happen. When you take that hot seat, anything can happen to anyone. He is a big guy and I am sure he will get a job soon because of who he is, what he has done, and the quality of coach he is.”
Manqoba Mngqithi failed to improve Sundowns
“Moments like these feel like a funeral. He did not just lose a job, Sundowns is family to him. So, it’s sad to see, but having said that, results are everything and if they are not forthcoming, then obviously things like this will happen,” Zwane added.
“I thought he would still get a chance to prove himself, but maybe the result against Magesi in the Carling Knockout had a lot to do with this decision,” he said.
Manqoba Mngqithi’s biggest downfall was losing to Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout Cup final. Zwane though says his coach brought so much value to the club despite losing the final.
“He brought so much value during his time there. They won cups while he was there. Having worked with him, I know what type of person he is and I’d like to believe he gave everything. He works hard and he loves his work.”
What’s next for Mngqithi?
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