Golden Arrows have reportedly appointed former Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi as their new head coach, following the departure of Pitso Dladla. The Durban-based club is looking to turn around its form after a poor run of results.

Ncikazi has worked at Golden Arrows before. During the 2020/21 Premier Soccer League season, he helped the team finish fourth. Pirates had earlier confirmed that he was leaving his role as assistant to head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou to take up a head coaching job, which opened the way for his reported return to Arrows.

Reports say Ncikazi has agreed to a two-year contract worth R350,000 a month. The club has not officially confirmed the length of the deal or the salary, so those details should be treated with caution until Golden Arrows make an announcement.

He is expected to replace Dladla, who took over after Manqoba Mngqithi left Arrows to join Tanzanian club Young Africans SC. Dladla began well, with the team going unbeaten in its first six matches. Arrows also beat Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8, which raised hopes among supporters. Their form later dropped, and the team reportedly went five matches without a win. That pressure led to the decision to change coach.

Ncikazi's knowledge of South African football and of the club's environment could help him settle quickly. His first task will be to rebuild the players' confidence, bring more consistency and get the team winning again. He will also need to assess the squad and settle on a style of play that suits the players he has.

A two-year deal, if confirmed, would give him time to work towards the club's goals, but expectations for a quick improvement are likely to be high. Arrows fans will hope his return brings stability. The reported salary has drawn attention, but his time at the club will be judged on results.

Source: 

https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/transfer-centre/ncikazi-lands-new-psl-job/