Mike Makaab Breaks Silence on Manqoba Mngqithi’s Kaizer Chiefs Links After Shock Young Africans Exit

Prosport International chief executive Mike Makaab has moved to clarify speculation surrounding Manqoba Mngqithi’s possible appointment at Kaizer Chiefs, insisting that the Soweto giants have made no formal approach for the experienced South African coach.

Manqoba Mngqithi’s departure from Tanzanian giants Young Africans SC has sparked considerable debate in South African football, with Kaizer Chiefs emerging as one of the clubs being mentioned as a possible destination for the highly experienced tactician.

However, despite growing speculation about a potential return to the Betway Premiership, Mngqithi’s representative has moved to distance the coach from reports suggesting that negotiations with Amakhosi are underway.

Speaking to FARPost, Makaab was categorical in rejecting suggestions that Kaizer Chiefs were preparing to bring Mngqithi to Naturena as their next head coach.

“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 there had been no official communication from the Soweto-based club regarding the experienced coach.

“Coach Manqoba is a top football coach with great experience, and there will always be rumours, but I can tell you that no formal approach has been made by Kaizer Chiefs,” he added.

The speculation surrounding Mngqithi is understandable considering his impressive coaching credentials and extensive experience in South African football.

The 55-year-old recently concluded a brief spell with Young Africans after spending approximately three months in charge of the Tanzanian powerhouse.

Interestingly, his departure came despite an encouraging start, which included winning the Tanzanian Community Shield after defeating arch-rivals Simba SC 1-0 in August.

During his time at the club, Mngqithi oversaw 13 matches across all competitions, recording 10 victories, two draws and just one defeat. His team scored 29 goals and conceded only seven, highlighting the impressive numbers achieved under his leadership.

Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs have experienced a challenging start under French tactician Fernando Da Cruz. The club's failure to secure the MTN8 title, coupled with an early CAF Confederation Cup exit during the preliminary rounds, has increased frustration among sections of the Amakhosi supporters.

Many fans are eager to see the club return to competing consistently for major trophies, and Mngqithi's experience makes him an attractive name whenever coaching speculation emerges.

However, Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr has publicly reaffirmed the club's backing for Da Cruz, suggesting that management remains committed to its current technical direction.

For now, there is no confirmed agreement between Mngqithi and Kaizer Chiefs, and Makaab's latest comments make it clear that reports of an official approach should be treated cautiously.

The experienced coach remains a respected figure in South African football, having built an impressive reputation through his work at Golden Arrows and Mamelodi Sundowns.

His contribution to Sundowns' historic 2016 CAF Champions League triumph, where he served as assistant coach to Pitso Mosimane, remains one of the highlights of his coaching career.

Ultimately, whether Mngqithi returns to the PSL or considers another opportunity abroad remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that his availability will continue to attract attention, particularly from clubs seeking experienced leadership and a proven understanding of South African football.

For Kaizer Chiefs supporters hoping to see Mngqithi at Naturena, Makaab's message is straightforward: there has been no formal approach, and the rumours should not be mistaken for a developing coaching agreement.

Source https://x.com/FARPostZA/status/2120890912481911227?a=OC-c2rF0Lol0-kdhQUs&s=19