Ronnie Kanalelo given international break to reshape Marumo Gallants

Marumo Gallants are expected to give Ronnie Kanalelo the FIFA international break to assess the squad and begin restructuring the club’s fortunes, with changes to both his technical team and playing personnel still under consideration.

The Namibian coach began his tenure with a 2-0 defeat by Orlando Pirates at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium on Sunday. However, the result is not expected to affect the club’s decision to give him time to implement his plans.

The victory was Orlando Pirates’ fifth consecutive league win, while Marumo Gallants remain without a win in the Betway Premiership this season.

Kanalelo, 55, was appointed last week after the club parted company with Phuti Mohafe following a difficult opening to the campaign. Mohafe’s short spell in charge ended with two draws and three defeats.

Marumo Gallants subsequently turned to the former Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper in an attempt to revive their season.

Time to assess the squad

The FIFA international break begins after this weekend’s fixtures, and Siya sources indicate that Gallants are expected to use the interruption to allow Kanalelo to work closely with his players and determine what needs to change.

His next match is scheduled for October 17, when Gallants face Sekhukhune United at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. The gap between fixtures will give Kanalelo several weeks to prepare for his first league match after the break.

There may also be changes to the coach’s technical staff. As previously reported by Soccer Laduma, former Bafana Bafana midfielder Macbeth Sibaya remains a possible addition to Kanalelo’s backroom team.

Discussions about the structure of the coaching staff are continuing, with Sibaya’s name having previously emerged as one of the candidates being considered to work alongside the new head coach.

Gallants could also strengthen their playing squad before the transfer window closes on Tuesday. The club is understood to be exploring the possibility of signing further players as Kanalelo begins the task of improving results.