SOCCER – Madlenya players have called for the dismissal of head coach William ‘Masondeza’ Gamedze, just a week before the club returns to elite football in the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup.
The players, popularly known as the Jozi Gobana ka-Madlenya family, have formally approached the club’s directors with a lengthy letter detailing their grievances against the coach and several concerns affecting the team.
The letter, which has been leaked to the Eswatini Observer Sports Desk, outlines a series of complaints, including Gamedze’s alleged unavailability during training sessions, his alleged treatment of players, a shortage of football boots, lack of funds, transport concerns and playing allowances.
At the centre of the players’ grievances is their demand for a change in the technical team, specifically the head coach. The players allege that Gamedze is often unavailable during training sessions, which they believe affects their preparations and results.
They also questioned how the starting line-up is selected, claiming that selections appear to be influenced by previous-season performances or previous matches rather than the players’ current form and the tactical requirements of each game.
The players said they needed a coach who would be available throughout the week to prepare them adequately for matches, particularly because they compete against teams that train twice a day.
The players also raised concerns over alleged comments made by Gamedze. They recalled an incident in Nhlangano where the coach allegedly said: “Imali yami ayisiko yeBhola yami nemndeni wami” (‘My money is not for football but for myself and my family’).
According to the players, the comment has affected their comfort around the coach, particularly when they need assistance with basic necessities.
They further accused Gamedze of using language they considered disrespectful towards players, citing phrases such as “Nilibele lokwekutalwa” (‘You are born stupid’) and “Nanayintfo nayiya” (‘That thing’). The players said they believed they deserved respect from the technical team.
Beyond the coach, the players highlighted several operational challenges. They complained about a lack of football boots, saying some players ended last season without receiving their pairs. They said this created inequalities within the squad, with some players having to borrow boots for competitive matches.
The players also raised concerns about finances, saying there had been occasions when they did not receive money after training sessions, resulting in some failing to attend subsequent sessions.
Transport was another major concern. The players requested that the directors provide a car on standby during away matches because some players arrive home after midnight. They expressed concern about the safety of teammates travelling home late at night, citing the possibility of incidents such as robbery or pickpocketing.
They also called for improved training schedules, including consistent departure, starting and finishing times.
According to the players, reliable transport would allow them to train adequately while ensuring they returned home at a safer time. The squad further requested playing allowances, proposing that players receive financial assistance every two months to help meet their personal responsibilities.
They also appealed to the directors to assist teammates who are still attending school with their fees. The players claimed it was disappointing when members of the squad remained at home for extended periods because their school fees had not been paid.
Despite the grievances, the players ended their letter by pledging their commitment to Madlenya once their concerns were addressed. They said they would make themselves available and work tirelessly to bring joy to the club’s stakeholders.
Madlenya Chief Executive Officer Comfort Jele confirmed that the club had received the players’ grievances.
“Yes, we acknowledge receipt of the grievances from the players, but I cannot go into details, and as management we are working around the clock to address them. An official statement will be issued,” Jele said.
The developments come at a sensitive time for Madlenya, with the club preparing for its return to the top-flight football environment and the opening of the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup campaign only days away.
