Luc Eymael applies for vacant Sekhukhune United head coach role

Former PSL coach Luc Eymael has applied for the vacant Sekhukhune United head coach position after the club dismissed Cedric Kaze following an unsatisfactory start to the 2026/27 season.

Sekhukhune became the first PSL club to part company with its coach this campaign when Kaze left earlier this week. Eymael, who is currently a free agent, has now asked his agent to submit an application for the job.

The Belgian has extensive experience in South African football, having previously managed Polokwane City and Chippa United. He is best remembered locally for guiding Free State Stars to a memorable Nedbank Cup triumph in 2018.

Eymael said he was aware of the vacancy but had not spoken to Sekhukhune United chairman about the possibility of taking charge.

“I am aware of Sekhukhune United, but I am uncertain whether the chairman has an interest in appointing me. We have not discussed this matter,” Eymael said, responding to a KickOff query on the rumour.

The 64-year-old also expressed his frustration at remaining without a club despite claiming to have won nine titles across Africa since 2010. He said a series of unsuccessful negotiations and circumstances outside his control had contributed to his current situation.

“I remain in Belgium,” revealed Eymael.

He said he had been expected to join TP Mazembe, but the move collapsed after the club’s chairman decided to bring back the Algerian coach who had been in charge the previous season and guided the team to the league title.

“My previous contract had not been finalised; I was scheduled to join TP Mazembe. The chairman personally contacted me, but the move did not materialise as he chose to rehire the Algerian coach from last season, who led them to the league title.”

Eymael added that talks with two Tunisian clubs also failed to lead to an appointment. CS Sfaxien opted for a coach who had already managed the club on four previous occasions, while an opportunity at Olympique de Beja did not convince him because of the club’s circumstances.

“I was in communication with CS Sfaxien in Tunisia. However, they selected a coach who had previously managed the team four times. There was another opportunity with Olympique de Beja, but the club’s situation did not appeal to me.”

He also outlined other opportunities that had slipped away elsewhere in Africa. In Morocco, Maracana appointed the Cape Verde national team coach, whose side had enjoyed a commendable World Cup and AFCON campaign.

“In Morocco, I was in contact with Maracana. The position ultimately went to the Cape Verde national team coach, who had a commendable World Cup and AFCON run.”

Eymael said he had further discussions with Al Hilal in Sudan, but the club eventually appointed Jozef Zinnbauer. He questioned that decision by pointing to Zinnbauer’s less successful spells in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

“Additionally, I engaged with Al Hilal in Sudan, where Jozef Zinnbauer was ultimately appointed despite his less successful stints in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.”

There were also talks with ZESCO United in Zambia, although the two parties could not agree terms.

“I have also been in discussions with ZESCO United in Zambia. However, we could not reach an agreement. This season has been particularly challenging and sometimes frustrating for me,” Eymael added.

While Sekhukhune search for a permanent replacement for Kaze, Papi Zothwane is serving as head coach, with Paulus Masehe working as his assistant.