Mngqithi leaves Young Africans amid speculation over Kaizer Chiefs move

Manqoba Mngqithi’s unexpected departure from Young Africans has prompted speculation over his next move, including a possible switch to Kaizer Chiefs.

The Tanzanian club dismissed the South African coach over the weekend after a goalless draw with TRA United in the Tanzanian Premier League. The result left Young Africans five points behind leaders and arch-rivals Simba SC after they dropped valuable points.

Mngqithi’s exit came despite an encouraging beginning to his time in charge. Young Africans won their first five matches under the 55-year-old, earning him the league’s Coach of the Month award, while the club also reached the group stages of the CAF Champions League during his tenure.

Pressure increased after Young Africans suffered a 2-1 defeat by Wekundu wa Msimbazi following the international break. The draw with TRA United then became Mngqithi’s final match as head coach of the Tanzanian giants.

Mike Makaab, the ProSport International CEO and Mngqithi’s representative, said the decision had surprised him, although he acknowledged that football could produce unexpected developments.

“Yes, but nothing surprises me in football. I’ve been in football for far too long to be overly surprised,” Makaab told KickOff.

The coaching change at Young Africans has also fuelled reports linking Mngqithi with Kaizer Chiefs, who are under scrutiny after being eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup in the qualifying rounds.

Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has faced growing pressure following the club’s disappointing continental campaign, leading to speculation that the technical team could be changed.

Makaab did not commit himself when asked whether Mngqithi would be a suitable candidate for the Amakhosi job.

“I’ve been in football for three-and-a-half decades, nothing surprises me,” he said.

Mngqithi previously enjoyed considerable success with Mamelodi Sundowns and could attract interest from clubs reviewing their coaching arrangements.

Mamelodi Sundowns are also facing uncertainty after failing to reach the CAF Champions League group stages for the first time since 2015. Their head coach, Miguel Cardoso, is under significant pressure following that early exit.

Kaizer Chiefs return to action on Tuesday evening when they host TS Galaxy at FNB Stadium in a Carling Knockout round-of-16 match.