Former Chippa United coach Dan Malesela has indicated that he is open to taking up an assistant coaching position in the Premier Soccer League, marking a possible change in direction for a tactician who has largely built his career as a head coach.

The 61-year-old made the revelation in an interview with KickOff, explaining that he would consider working as a second-in-command if the club and its head coach offered an environment where he could make a meaningful contribution.

Malesela, known for promoting possession-based and attacking football, stressed that he would not accept an assistant role simply because he was looking for employment. He wants to ensure that his football philosophy is compatible with the team’s approach.

“I do not mind being an assistant coach, but it depends on the club and the head coach,” he said.

He explained that differences in tactical ideas could create unnecessary tension if he joined a technical team whose style was fundamentally different from his own.

“I do not want to end up in conflict with people by agreeing to something simply because I want a job,” Malesela added, emphasising that he must be able to contribute to the team’s footballing direction.

His comments come after his departure from Chippa United, where he had been working as head coach of the club’s DStv Diski Challenge side. The separation marked another change in a coaching career that has included several clubs in South African football.

Malesela is widely remembered for guiding TS Galaxy to a remarkable achievement in 2019, when the then-second-tier side defeated Kaizer Chiefs to win the Nedbank Cup. That triumph remains one of the notable milestones of his coaching career.

He has also worked with clubs such as Marumo Gallants, Royal AM and Baroka FC, although his spells at several of these teams were relatively short.

Beyond club coaching, Malesela took up the position of Head of Football Development at the Africa School of Excellence earlier this year, adding another dimension to his involvement in the game.

His willingness to consider an assistant coaching position could open a different professional opportunity within the PSL. However, his comments make clear that the identity of the club, the head coach and the team’s playing philosophy would all influence any decision.

For now, Malesela has expressed his availability, but no specific club or appointment has been announced.

Source: https://x.com/kickoffmagazine/status/2120543337014874250?s=46