Joel Masutha explains Kruger United exit as return to The Bees nears

Joel Masutha has said family responsibilities in Venda forced him to leave Kruger United after only three months, despite being happy with the Betway Premiership newcomers.

Masutha joined The Village Boys in June 2026 as assistant coach to Abram Mongoya. However, the former Black Leopards coach departed abruptly and has now explained that frequent travel between the club in Mpumalanga and his home in Venda made it impossible for him to give the team his full commitment.

“I left because I have got some family issues to attend to most of the time,” Masutha, known as “Moporofita” in domestic football, told KickOff.

“So I felt I couldn’t give my all to the club. There are things that need my attention back at home in Venda. That’s the only reason.

“Otherwise, I was happy at the club; everything was going accordingly, but having to travel to Venda every week was not helping.”

Despite his departure, Masutha remains confident Kruger United can finish the season strongly under their current technical team.

“100% I believe the team is in good hands with the technical team that is there. We were just unlucky here and there not to win some games, but I’ve got no doubt the team will finish in the top eight,” he said.

Masutha set for second spell with The Bees

Masutha is expected to return to Motsepe Foundation Championship side The Bees and take charge as head coach.

The move would mark a return to the club he managed before leaving for Kruger United. Duncan Lechesa succeeded him at The Bees but has since departed, clearing the way for Masutha to come back.

Masutha has also managed Black Leopards, Baroka FC, Pretoria Callies, Chippa United and Maccabi FC during his coaching career.

The Bees are currently 14th in the National First Division standings. They have won one match and lost four so far this season.

His immediate task will be to help the club improve their results and move away from the bottom end of the table as he prepares for a second spell in charge.

For Kruger United, Masutha’s departure leaves Mongoya and the remaining technical staff to continue their campaign, with the former assistant coach backing them to secure a top-eight finish.