Mohamed Fathi emerges as potential option for PSL clubs

Egyptian coach Mohamed Fathi is being considered as a possible option for clubs in the Betway Premiership, with the experienced manager understood to be open to a move to South Africa.

Fathi’s representatives in Mzansi are exploring opportunities for the 52-year-old, who is currently available after leaving Zambian club Kansanshi Dynamos. He has built extensive experience across the African game during a coaching career spanning several countries.

The coaching market in the PSL has already begun to shift early in the 2026/27 season, creating potential openings for Fathi. Marumo Gallants are among the clubs looking for a new permanent head coach after parting company with Phuti Mohafe and his assistant Musa Bilankulu earlier this week.

Gallants confirmed on Wednesday that Mohafe and Bilankulu had left the club with immediate effect. Second assistant coach Trevor Mathiane has taken temporary charge while the Limpopo-based side considers candidates for the permanent position.

Fathi could therefore be a name to monitor as Gallants assess their options, although there is no indication at this stage that the club is close to appointing him.

The Egyptian coach has strong links with football in Zambia, where he has worked for several years. He joined Kansanshi Dynamos late last year, taking charge of a team struggling close to the relegation zone.

His immediate responsibility was to help the club avoid danger, drawing on his previous experience with NAPSA Stars. Fathi had earlier helped the Zambian side negotiate a difficult situation and was appointed at Kansanshi Dynamos with a similar challenge in front of him.

Wide coaching experience

Fathi’s career includes spells with Power Dynamos, Kabwe Warriors, Lusaka Dynamos, Highlanders and NAPSA Stars. He has also worked outside Zambia, serving Berrechid in Morocco, Al-Bashaer, DC Motema Pembe and Abha, where he was an assistant coach.

One of the most significant achievements of his career came during the 2020/21 season, when he guided NAPSA Stars to their first appearance in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.

That milestone remains a notable part of Fathi’s record as he continues to develop his coaching qualifications. He has completed the CAF Pro Elite Licence course through the Egyptian Football Federation.

His next appointment has yet to be determined. However, with changes already taking place among Betway Premiership clubs, Fathi’s availability and willingness to consider working in South Africa could make him a potential candidate for teams seeking an experienced coach.