Marumo Gallants set to sign ex-SuperSport defender Eric Mbangossoum after trial impact

Marumo Gallants are poised to hand a contract to former SuperSport United defender Eric Mbangossoum after the Chad international impressed during pre-season training in Tshwane.

The 26-year-old centre-back, who previously played for Union de Touarga in Morocco, has been training with Gallants as new head coach Phuti Mohafe undertakes a sweeping rebuild of the squad ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign.

Mbangossoum is understood to be close to finalising terms after catching the eye of the technical team in friendly matches.

“There is a defender from Chad training with us. He has been doing well during the pre-season games. I understand the club is trying to sign him,” said one source close to the club.

Defender looks to revive stalled South African move

Mbangossoum first arrived in South Africa in 2024 when SuperSport United brought him in following a strong spell in Morocco with Union de Touarga.

He was then expected to join University of Pretoria last season, but that transfer broke down before completion, leaving the defender without a permanent home in the Betway Premiership.

His stint at SuperSport was brief, and the opportunity at Gallants now offers him a chance to relaunch his career in South African top-flight football.

The Chadian centre-back has been training with Gallants, now based in Tshwane, with insiders suggesting an agreement could be confirmed before the club’s league opener.

He is seen as a potential key addition to a defensive line that is being reshaped as part of Mohafe’s early overhaul.

Mohafe’s rebuild gathers pace

Gallants, nicknamed Bahlabane Ba Ntwa, appointed Phuti Mohafe following his impressive work at Polokwane City, where he steered Rise and Shine to a top-eight finish in the Premiership last season.

Despite ending the last campaign in 14th place and securing their top-flight status, Gallants have chosen not to stand still.

Eight players have been released as the club moves quickly to back their new coach and refresh the squad.

Those departing are Lebogang Mabotja, Washington Arubi, Katekani Mhlongo, Jaison Clifford, Bareng Ledwaba, Edson Khumalo, Siya Nhlapo and Lucky Sithole.

In a statement, the Bloemfontein-based side expressed appreciation for the outgoing group.

“Thank you for your dedication, commitment, and the impact you brought at Marumo Gallants FC,” the club said.

“As you move on to the next chapter of your careers, we wish you every success and happiness. You will always be part of the Gallants family.”

Tough opening test against champions

Gallants’ first competitive assignment of the new season will be a daunting trip to Pretoria on 2 August to face champions Mamelodi Sundowns in their opening Betway Premiership fixture.

With a revamped squad and a new coach, the club will be looking to avoid another relegation battle and instead push towards mid-table stability.

Should Mbangossoum complete his expected move, he is likely to be drafted in quickly as Mohafe seeks to tighten the defence before the visit to Sundowns.

The combination of an overhauled playing squad, a new technical vision under Mohafe and the pending arrival of the Chadian defender signals a significant new chapter for Marumo Gallants as they prepare for the 2026/27 season.