Golden Arrows have addressed speculation linking Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi with a possible return to the Durban-based club as head coach Pitso Dladla faces growing scrutiny over the team’s results.

Arrows have reportedly endured a difficult start to their Betway Premiership campaign, recording just one victory in their opening eight league matches. The results have raised questions about the team’s ability to regain consistency and improve its position in the competition.

Amid the speculation, reports have suggested that the club could be considering alternative coaching options, with Ncikazi reportedly among the names linked to the position.

However, Golden Arrows team manager Nonceba Madlala has dismissed claims that the club is aware of a move involving the experienced coach.

“We don’t know anything about Mandla Ncikazi coming to Arrows,” Madlala said.

Her comments indicate that the reported links have not been confirmed by the club. There has been no official announcement that Ncikazi is being pursued as a potential replacement for Dladla.

Dladla Under Pressure After Difficult Start

Dladla remains in charge of Golden Arrows, but the team’s early-season results have increased pressure on the technical team to deliver better performances.

In a competitive Premiership campaign, a lack of victories can quickly affect a club’s ambitions. Arrows will need to improve their consistency, strengthen their performances and collect more points to ease concerns surrounding their progress.

The coming fixtures could therefore be important for Dladla as he seeks to guide the team through its difficult period.

Although speculation about a possible coaching change continues, the club has not confirmed that it intends to part ways with its current head coach.

Why Ncikazi Has Been Linked to Arrows

Ncikazi’s reported connection to Golden Arrows has attracted attention because of his previous association with the club and his experience in South African football.

The 57-year-old is currently part of Orlando Pirates’ technical team, working alongside head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

His familiarity with Golden Arrows could make him an interesting option if the club eventually decides to explore a change in leadership. However, that possibility remains speculative, and there is no confirmed agreement or appointment.

Any potential move would also depend on whether Arrows formally pursue his services and the circumstances surrounding his current role at Pirates.

Golden Arrows Yet to Confirm a Coaching Change

For now, the immediate challenge for Golden Arrows is to improve their results and restore confidence within the squad.

Madlala’s comments have pushed back against claims that a move for Ncikazi is already underway, leaving Dladla in charge as the team looks to turn its campaign around.

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