Dimitar Pantev steps down as Gaborone United coach after historic title win

Dimitar Pantev has resigned as head coach of Gaborone United with immediate effect, bringing an end to a tenure marked by one of the club’s most successful periods.

The Bulgarian tactician, who masterminded the club’s 2024/25 league triumph, bid farewell to players and staff on Friday morning in an emotional send-off.

The club confirmed his departure in a statement released on its social media channels.

Gaborone United announces that head coach Dimitar Pantev is leaving the club with immediate effect.

Coach Pantev has decided to pursue a new opportunity in his career, and the club has respectfully granted his request, the announcement read.

Pantev’s farewell at the training ground was described by insiders as a moment of mutual respect between a coach who left an indelible mark on the dressing room and an appreciative management team.

Reports from within the club point to an amicable departure, one accepted with dignity on both sides.

Gaborone United were quick to highlight the scale of Pantev’s achievements.

Since his arrival at GU, Pantev has been a pillar of leadership and professionalism. Under his leadership, the club won its historic 8th league title in the 2024/25 season, the club said in its statement.

That triumph, a milestone in the club’s history, has set a high standard for whoever takes over next.

His legacy will always be part of our history. We wish him every success in this new phase of his life, the statement concluded. While the club has yet to reveal the identity of Pantev’s successor, it confirmed that an announcement will be made in due course.

Pantev’s exit leaves Gaborone United at a crossroads as it looks to build on his success and continue its rise in Botswana football.

His leadership not only delivered silverware but also reshaped the club’s competitive mentality, making his departure a significant moment for both players and supporters.

With the coaching position now vacant, speculation is already mounting over who will be entrusted with maintaining the momentum he created.

For Gaborone United, Pantev’s departure marks the end of a celebrated chapter and the start of an uncertain but intriguing new era.