Mohafe ready to return to coaching after Marumo Gallants exit

Phuti Mohafe says he is available for a new coaching job after his brief spell with Marumo Gallants ended, with the 52-year-old keen to return to the touchline.

Mohafe is currently unattached but remains determined to continue his managerial career after establishing himself as one of South Africa’s most promising coaches during a successful three-year period at Polokwane City.

He guided Polokwane City to consecutive Top Eight finishes before taking charge of Marumo Gallants. However, his time with the club was short-lived and his departure has left him searching for his next opportunity.

The former defender has recently been linked with vacancies in the top flight, including a possible approach from Richards Bay FC. However, he says he would also consider taking charge of a club in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

That division could provide a natural fit for Mohafe’s coaching approach. During his time at Gallants, he spoke openly about his preference for finding and developing players who had not yet established themselves at the highest level.

“My philosophy is to work with the unknown,” Mohafe previously said.

“High intensity tells you the kind of players we sign – hard-working players who can maintain and sustain the intensity of a match for 90 minutes. Many acquisitions are from the Motsepe Foundation Championship and ABC Motsepe League.”

In an interview with KickOff on Monday, Mohafe confirmed that he was open to taking a job at any level.

“Of course I’m available to coach wherever I’m needed. I worked and played in the NFD before,” he said.

Mohafe also pointed to his role in Polokwane City’s promotion in 2023, highlighting the circumstances in which he took over the team.

“I am the one who promoted Polokwane City in 2023. Remember Duncan Lechesa, who served as head coach left with 12 games still remaining,” he added.

Mohafe’s record at Polokwane City has kept him in consideration for further positions despite the setback at Gallants. His previous experience in the second tier, both as a player and coach, also makes him a potential candidate for clubs competing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

Several NFD sides are struggling for consistency or trying to assemble squads capable of pursuing promotion before the mid-season break. Mohafe’s availability could therefore appeal to clubs seeking an experienced coach to provide direction and strengthen their promotion ambitions.