Mngqithi Breaks Silence on Young Africans Exit and Aziz Ki Relationship

South African football coach Manqoba Mngqithi has finally spoken about his unexpected departure from Tanzanian giants Young Africans, offering an explanation for the circumstances surrounding his short-lived spell at the club. He also addressed speculation about his relationship with influential midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki, whose situation had attracted considerable attention following the coach’s exit.

Mngqithi joined Young Africans at the beginning of the campaign and enjoyed an impressive start. He guided the Tanzanian side to the Community Shield, secured qualification for the CAF Champions League group stages and recorded 10 victories in 13 matches across all competitions.

Despite these achievements, his time at the club ended earlier than expected. Explaining his departure during an interview on SNAWA, Mngqithi suggested that personal and professional principles played a significant role in the decision.

“I wouldn’t really want to say what happened at Yanga, you know me better, I would say it was just a matter of principles,” he said.

He further explained that maintaining his personal beliefs and professional standards was more important than remaining in the coaching position.

“It was at a stage where I wanted to make sure that as well that my principles, beliefs, ethics stay intact and that basically was the reason why we parted ways.”

The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach also dismissed suggestions that poor performances were responsible for his departure. He maintained that he enjoyed a positive working relationship with the club’s leadership, players and technical staff.

“I have a lot of respect for Yanga, fans, players, my staff but it just as a matter of principle, maybe it would be the best thing to be where we are.”

Mngqithi also addressed rumours surrounding Stephane Aziz Ki, denying that the situation was simply about his decision to select or exclude the midfielder from matches.

“I don’t think the issue revolves around me playing Aziz, and I would be lying if I said that; I don’t want to create the wrong impression,” he explained.

However, he suggested that Aziz Ki might have communicated concerns about his tactical approach to members of the club’s management.

“The reality is the management knew that as soon as Aziz was going to be important for the club. What I can tell you what I think is the case – is that it is possible Aziz might have spoken to some members of management to indicate that he would not like to play in my system.”

His comments have added another dimension to discussions surrounding his unexpected departure. iDiski Times +1

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