Mngqithi leaves Young Africans despite career-best coaching record

Manqoba Mngqithi has left Young Africans after only three months in charge, despite recording the best win rate of his coaching career and guiding the Tanzanian club into the CAF Champions League group stage.

The 55-year-old is now without a club after overseeing 13 matches in all competitions. Young Africans won 10 of those games, drew two and lost once, giving Mngqithi a win rate of 76.9%.

That record surpasses his figures as sole head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns. During his time in charge, he managed 19 matches, winning 13, drawing two and losing four for a 68.4% success rate.

Mngqithi’s exit highlights the uncertainty surrounding coaching positions at leading African clubs, even when results are strong.

The coach joined Mamelodi Sundowns from Golden Arrows in 2013 and held several positions at the Tshwane club, working as assistant coach, co-coach and senior coach before becoming the team’s sole head coach.

His other PSL appointments included AmaZulu FC and Chippa United, although his spell at Chippa United lasted only six weeks.

Kaizer Chiefs links dismissed

Mngqithi has been linked with a possible return to South Africa following his departure from Young Africans, with Kaizer Chiefs among the clubs mentioned.

Kaizer Chiefs are currently experiencing difficulties under Fernando da Cruz. The club was recently eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup and faces TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout on Tuesday evening, before a Soweto Derby fixture on the horizon.

However, Kaizer Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jnr. rejected suggestions that discussions were taking place between the club and Mngqithi.

A user on X claimed talks were under way, prompting the former striker to respond: “Completely lies.” The reply has since gone viral.

Mamelodi Sundowns return remains possible

A return to Mamelodi Sundowns has also not been ruled out, although Miguel Cardoso’s position depends on how the club’s hierarchy responds to their shock elimination from the CAF Champions League.

Regardless of his next destination, Mngqithi’s record in Tanzania is expected to strengthen his position in any negotiations. His results at Young Africans have ensured that he remains highly rated and part of important discussions around coaching appointments.

The contrast between his departure and his record underlines the pressure placed on coaches at major African clubs, where even a highly successful run may not guarantee a long-term position.