Marumo Gallants part company with Phuti Mohafe as Dimitar Pantev emerges as contender

Marumo Gallants have parted ways with head coach Phuti Mohafe and assistant coach Musa Bilankulu after a poor start to the league season, with Bulgarian coach Dimitar Pantev reported to be in contention to take over.

The club confirmed Mohafe’s departure on Wednesday, bringing an end to his time in charge after he joined Gallants during the off-season from Polokwane City.

Gallants said second assistant coach Trevor Mathiane would lead the team on an interim basis while the club searches for a permanent successor.

“Marumo Gallants confirms that the club has parted ways with head coach Phuti Mohafe and assistant coach Musa Bilankulu with immediate effect,” the statement from Gallants read.

“The club will not be commenting on the circumstances surrounding the decision or engaging on the merits of the matter. In the interim, second assistant coach Trevor Mathiane will assume responsibility as interim head coach, while the club continues its search for a new coach.

“Gallants remains focused on ensuring continuity within the team and maintaining its preparations and commitments for the remainder of the season.”

Mohafe is the third coach to leave a PSL club this season. He follows Cedric Kaze, who parted ways with Sekhukhune United, and Lehlohonolo Seema, who left Siwelele.

Pantev has been linked with the vacancy after reportedly remaining in contact with Gallants for some time. Reports suggested he was expected to arrive in South Africa on Tuesday, although the club has not confirmed that he will become Mohafe’s successor.

The Bulgarian coach has previously managed Tanzanian club Simba and Gaborone United in Botswana.

Gallants’ coaching change comes alongside movement in their squad. The club confirmed the arrival of Daniel Msendani and Abdoulaye Mariko on loan from Orlando Pirates.

Their moves followed the departure of Bheki Mabuza, who has moved in the opposite direction.

For now, Mathiane will oversee the team as Gallants attempt to maintain continuity while preparations and commitments for the rest of the season continue. The club has not disclosed the circumstances behind its decision to part company with Mohafe and Bilankulu.

The report was published by Sowetan, which also invited readers to join its WhatsApp channel for the latest updates. An audio version of the story was generated using artificial intelligence.