Sekhukhune United have parted ways with head coach Lehlohonolo Seema following their 2-1 loss to Richards Bay in the Betway Premiership.
The decision, which had been looming for weeks, was made official on Wednesday after the defeat at King Zwelithini Stadium.
Seema’s future had been uncertain for some time, with speculation that his tenure was at risk if results did not improve.
A crucial victory against Chippa United briefly extended his stay, but the club has now decided to move in a different direction.
Disappointing exit despite strong league position
The timing of Seema’s departure comes as a surprise, given that Sekhukhune United remain in contention for a top-three finish.
The club currently sits fourth in the Betway Premiership standings, having accumulated 31 points from 20 matches.
However, their latest setback allowed Stellenbosch to overtake them in third place, increasing pressure on the coaching staff.
Despite his dismissal, Seema had made notable contributions to the team.
In his second stint with Sekhukhune, he had guided the club to a strong league position and played a key role in their qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup last season.
However, his tenure was marred by inconsistency, which ultimately led to the club’s decision to part ways.
Potential replacement in Eric Tinkler
Rumours are already circulating about who will replace Seema, with former Cape Town City coach Eric Tinkler emerging as a frontrunner.
Tinkler, who was dismissed by Cape Town City in December, has significant experience in South African football and could be seen as the ideal candidate to take Sekhukhune forward.
The club has yet to make an official announcement regarding a successor, but with crucial league fixtures approaching, management will be eager to appoint a new head coach swiftly.
Seema’s coaching journey
Lehlohonolo Seema has had multiple spells in South African football, previously managing Golden Arrows and Chippa United.
This was his second tenure with Sekhukhune United, having originally been hired last season before departing with four games remaining.
cHis return at the start of this campaign was intended to bring stability, but inconsistent results and mounting pressure from the club’s hierarchy have now led to his exit.
With Sekhukhune United still in contention for a strong finish in the league, the next managerial appointment will be crucial in determining whether they can maintain their push for continental football next season.
