SOCCER – The relationship between Nsingizini Hotspurs head coach Mandla Qhogi and attacking winger Ayanda Gadlela has reportedly become strained following an explosive confrontation during preseason training.
According to reports, the player walked out of the team’s training base on Tuesday after a verbal altercation with the coach.
Sources close to the matter revealed that the coach was angered by the player after he reportedly went AWOL immediately after the Ingwenyama Cup final at Somhlolo National Stadium. Gadlela scored the winning goal that earned the Shiselweni-based outfit the championship.
It is understood that players were given winning bonuses after the match, but Gadlela failed to report back to the club’s Hluti base afterwards, missing the remaining two MTN Premier League matches.
Sources within the team disclosed that the player resurfaced recently when the club resumed its pre-season preparations for the new season, which will see the club compete in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.
“It’s a sensitive matter within the team. The coach was angry and told the player that it’s either me or you at the club. So Gadlela decided to leave the club’s training base immediately and hasn’t returned. We will see whether the parties eventually sit around the table or not. But please call the communications department; they are in a better position to comment,” said the source.
Nsingizini Public Relations Officer Mnotfo Dlamini said nothing had reached his office regarding the player’s absence from camp.
“All I know is that the players are in camp. From what you’re asking regarding the player, I have to double-check and we will let you know,” he said.
Gadlela is one of the country’s most talented players, having joined the treble champions from capital city giants Mbabane Swallows two seasons ago.
Soccer Laduma recently reported that the forward has attracted interest from PSL clubs following his impressive Ingwenyama Cup campaign, during which he scored the extra-time winner to help his side secure a historic 1-0 victory over Green Mamba.
He started his career at Ubombo Sugar before joining the defunct Tambuti FC. Meanwhile, Nsingizini have already started their pre-season preparations as they gear up for their continental campaign and domestic competitions.
Qhogi’s side recently announced the signings of former Moneni Pirates duo Innocent Pakule and Mthobiso Zwane. Mankayane United forward Andile Motsa has also been unveiled by the ambitious outfit.
