SOCCER—South African-born tactician Mandla Qhogi has committed his immediate future to Nsingizini Hotspurs, turning down substantial interest from several Betway Premiership sides in his homeland to lead the local champions into Africa.
The highly rated coach emerged as a primary target for South African top-flight clubs Marumo Gallants, Durban City and Lamontville Golden Arrows following a historic, trophy-laden campaign.
Arrows were understood to be leading the chase, having earmarked the tactician for a high-profile assistant coaching role. However, according to reports from South African football publication Kick Off, Qhogi ultimately opted to remain at the helm of the ambitious Shiselweni-based outfit.
Confirming the cross-border interest, Qhogi stated that while the lure of returning home to the lucrative Premier Soccer League was strong, his work with the local giants remains unfinished.
“There were offers. There was another offer in PSL as assistant coach. As much as the offer was good, I’ve decided to stay with Nsingizini this coming season,” he told Kick Off.
Reacting to the developments, Nsingizini Hotspurs Public Relations Officer (PRO) Mnotfo Dlamini said the club’s administrative office had put together a long-term plan with Qhogi in mind, and that the club remains unreservedly confident in their standard-bearer.
Dlamini expressed immense satisfaction that the history-making gaffer would continue to guide the Shiselweni giants through their next phase of growth.
“We are happy the coach is staying, because then it proves how big of a club Nsingizini Hotspurs is and we are more than happy with the work he has done. We are preparing for another strong season as we return to Africa and coach Qhogi is the best man to lead us,” he said.
He added that the club would be conducting open trials later this month, which would be led by the head coach, as they look to strengthen the team.
Qhogi’s stock has risen exponentially after guiding Hotspurs to an unprecedented domestic treble last season.
Under his meticulous guidance, the club secured the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup, clinched the SMVAF Ingwenyama Cup and successfully defended their MTN Premier League crown, finishing comfortably at the summit of the log standings with an impressive 65 points.
Retaining his services represents a massive coup for the Nsingizini board, particularly as the club prepares to fly the national flag in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, marking their second appearance in Africa’s premier club competition.
The coach’s decision to stay provides crucial continuity for the champions, who are currently rebuilding the squad after exporting a core contingent of their star players across the border.
Zimbabwean Premiership sides have raided the stable heavily, with both Scottland FC and Hardrock FC securing major signatures from the treble winners.
Sambulo ‘Masoso’ Simelane, Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini, Thubelihle Mavuso and Sizwe ‘Yeki’ Khumalo have all completed moves to Hardrock, while midfield anchor Kwakhe Thwala has linked up with Scottland FC.
The squad could be depleted further, with top striker Senzo ‘Mbhobho’ Ndlovu currently undergoing assessments at Scottland ahead of a potential permanent switch.
This intense transfer activity aligns with the impending opening of the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League mid-season transfer window, which runs from July 1 to July 31.
