Dimitar Pantev explains why Marumo Gallants move broke down

Dimitar Pantev says “too many differences” prevented him from taking charge of Betway Premiership club Marumo Gallants.

The Bulgarian coach travelled from Botswana to South Africa to meet the club’s management, with the move appearing close to completion. However, the two sides were unable to reach an agreement and Pantev has since returned to Gaborone.

“We talked. We couldn’t confirm. We wish each other good luck… that’s all. I think that they already appointed a new coach, Ronnie Kanalelo,” Pantev told Soccer Laduma.

Pantev said Marumo Gallants had invited him to South Africa so the two parties could discuss the position in person.

“They invited me there. We decided that it’s better to sit, talk and discuss face to face. There was no agreement from before. In the end, there were too many differences,” he said.

The 50-year-old declined to provide further details about the issues that led to the proposed appointment falling through.

Asked whether he would consider pursuing another opportunity in South Africa, Pantev said he would remain open to offers but was not expecting anything in particular.

“I don’t hope for anything. If the offer comes and I am available, I am ready to discuss,” he added.

Pantev built his reputation in Botswana, where he also coached Orapa United, before moving to Tanzania to take charge of Simba SC.

He also previously managed Gaborone United.