Siwelele in advanced talks to appoint former Marumo Gallants coach Alexandre Lafitte

Siwelele FC are in advanced negotiations with Alexandre Lafitte over the vacant head-coach position, with the former Marumo Gallants manager understood to be the leading candidate for the job.

The Free State-based club dismissed Lehlohonolo Seema on Monday after a poor opening to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season. Siwelele have taken only two points from their first five matches, losing three and drawing two.

Godfrey Mosoetsa was placed in temporary charge before Wednesday’s difficult fixture against Mamelodi Sundowns. However, the caretaker coach was unable to prevent another defeat as Siwelele lost 3-0 to the African champions at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

The club are now seeking a permanent replacement for Seema, and Lafitte has emerged as their preferred option.

The 29-year-old Frenchman has been without a club since leaving Marumo Gallants in March. His departure followed a challenging period in charge during which he was suspended by the club before the two parties parted ways.

Lafitte could now return to South Africa, with discussions over a move to Siwelele reportedly progressing.

“Siwelele want to hire Alexandre, he hasn’t signed anything yet, but he is the leading candidate,” a source close to the situation said.

“They are still in negotiations, and if all goes well, he will be announced soon, but everything looks promising at this point.”

Lafitte joined Marumo Gallants at the beginning of the 2025/26 season and spent about nine months in charge of the club.

Although his time at Gallants eventually became difficult, he led the team to an impressive run in the Carling Knockout. Bahlabane Ba Ntwa reached the final, where they were beaten 1-0 by Orlando Pirates.

If the proposed appointment is completed, Lafitte will have another opportunity to work in the Betway Premiership. His immediate task would be to improve Siwelele’s results and guide the club away from its difficult start to the campaign.