Siwelele FC talks with Alexandre Lafitte collapse over contract terms

Siwelele FC must resume their search for a permanent head coach after negotiations with former Marumo Gallants manager Alexandre Lafitte broke down.

The Free State club had made the Frenchman their preferred candidate to replace Lehlohonolo Seema, who left his position earlier this month following a poor start to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign.

Siwelele collected only two points from their opening five matches before Seema was relieved of his duties. Godfrey Mosoetsa was then appointed on an interim basis while the club continued looking for a permanent successor.

Lafitte had emerged as the leading option and discussions between the 29-year-old and Siwelele had progressed to an advanced stage. However, the proposed appointment has now fallen through after the two sides were unable to agree terms.

“Unfortunately, Lafitte and Siwelele have not been able to reach an agreement, the offer is off the table,” a source close to the negotiations said.

The collapse of the talks leaves Siwelele needing to identify another candidate as they attempt to arrest their difficult beginning to the season. Mosoetsa remains in temporary charge while the club returns to the market for a coach to take over from Seema on a permanent basis.

Lafitte is still without a club after leaving Bahlabane Ba Ntwa in March. He had spent approximately nine months in charge of Marumo Gallants, having taken the job at the start of the 2025/26 season.

His time with Gallants included a run to the Carling Knockout final. The club were beaten 1-0 by Orlando Pirates in the deciding match, but the campaign represented the Frenchman’s most notable achievement during his spell in charge.

Lafitte’s tenure eventually ended in difficult circumstances, including a suspension before his departure. He will now continue looking for his next coaching role after the opportunity to join Siwelele was removed from the table.

The Free State outfit, meanwhile, must consider alternative options as it seeks a manager capable of improving its results and guiding the team away from the problems that have marked the opening weeks of the campaign.