Chiefs Decision Made: Mike Makaab Drops Bombshell On Manqoba Mngqithi Taking Over At Naturena

Mike Makaab Breaks Silence on Manqoba Mngqithi’s Next Move After Shock Young Africans Exit

Prosport International chief executive Mike Makaab has provided an important update on the future of experienced South African coach Manqoba Mngqithi following his unexpected departure from Tanzanian giants Young Africans SC.

Mngqithi’s exit from the Dar es Salaam-based club has generated considerable discussion in South African football, with speculation already emerging about where the highly rated tactician could continue his coaching career.

The 55-year-old joined Young Africans in July 2026 with expectations of delivering domestic and continental success. However, his time at the club came to an abrupt end after approximately three months, despite an impressive start to his tenure.

During his short spell, Mngqithi guided the Tanzanian giants to the Community Shield title after defeating their fierce rivals Simba SC 1-0. He also helped the team secure qualification for the CAF Champions League group stages.

Overall, the former Mamelodi Sundowns mentor oversaw 13 matches, recording 10 victories, two draws and just one defeat across all competitions. His team scored 29 goals and conceded only seven.

Despite those impressive statistics, his relationship with the club eventually came to an end amid reported disagreements over professionalism, discipline and the management of players.

Following his departure, attention quickly shifted towards potential opportunities in the Betway Premiership, particularly with Kaizer Chiefs.

Amakhosi have experienced a challenging start to their 2026/27 campaign under French coach Fernando Da Cruz, prompting sections of their supporters to question the team’s progress.

Mngqithi’s availability naturally sparked speculation that he could become a possible candidate should the Soweto giants consider making changes to their technical team.

However, Makaab has moved to clarify the situation, dismissing reports suggesting that Chiefs have made an approach for his client.

Speaking to FARPost, the Prosport International boss described the speculation as unfair to the current technical team at Naturena.

“It’s not true [that Chiefs want to bring in Mngqithi as head coach], and it’s unfair to the current technical staff. You know rumours like this can cause a lot of problems,” Makaab explained.

He further emphasised that Mngqithi remains a highly respected coach with considerable experience, adding that no formal approach has been made by Amakhosi.

Makaab’s comments suggest that, although the former Golden Arrows coach is attracting attention following his availability, a move to Naturena should not be treated as an imminent development.

Mngqithi’s next destination therefore remains uncertain, although reports have indicated that he has attracted interest from potential employers both in South Africa and abroad.

The experienced coach has previously demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level, particularly during his lengthy association with Mamelodi Sundowns, where he contributed to several domestic successes and the club’s 2016 CAF Champions League triumph as an assistant coach.

His experience, tactical knowledge and understanding of South African football could make him an attractive option for clubs searching for an experienced technical leader.

For now, Mngqithi appears to have an important decision to make regarding the next chapter of his career, while Makaab’s latest comments have made it clear that rumours linking him to Kaizer Chiefs should be approached with caution.

Whether he returns to the South African top flight or considers another opportunity outside the country remains to be seen.

Source https://x.com/FARPostZA/status/2121865131713851546?a=KBoWhKRG9jSRGzpIKeU&s=19

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