Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has reportedly emerged as a potential candidate to take over as head coach of Golden Arrows, with Pitso Dladla's position said to be under review following the club's disappointing run of results.

According to a report attributed to SoccerBeat, Golden Arrows are considering their options after managing just one win in their opening eight matches. Ncikazi is understood to be among the candidates being considered, with the experienced coach reportedly sitting at the top of the shortlist.

The development comes after Golden Arrows suffered a difficult spell in the Betway Premiership, raising questions about the team's performances under Dladla. The coach was appointed in June 2026 after leaving Durban City, where he had enjoyed an impressive period that included winning the Nedbank Cup.

Dladla arrived at Golden Arrows with expectations of building on the club's previous achievements and establishing a competitive team for the 2026/27 campaign. However, the reported struggles have increased pressure on the technical team to improve results.

Golden Arrows' recent performances have also highlighted their problems in front of goal. On October 18, 2026, the team suffered a 1-0 defeat against Milford FC, extending their winless run in the league to four consecutive matches. Dladla expressed frustration with his team's inability to convert scoring opportunities despite what he considered a positive performance in parts of the match.

Ncikazi, meanwhile, brings considerable experience to the coaching discussion. The Orlando Pirates assistant coach has previously worked with Golden Arrows and has held coaching positions at several South African clubs. His familiarity with the club could be an advantage if the team decides to make a change.

The experienced tactician has also worked alongside different coaches throughout his career, gaining valuable knowledge of the Premier Soccer League. His experience with Orlando Pirates has kept him involved at the highest level of domestic football, where expectations remain high.

However, there has been no official confirmation that Golden Arrows have decided to dismiss Dladla or appoint Ncikazi as his replacement. The reported shortlist should therefore be treated as speculation until the club makes an announcement.

For now, Dladla faces the challenge of improving Golden Arrows' results and restoring confidence within the team. The coming matches could prove important as the club looks to move away from its current difficulties.

If the reports about Ncikazi are accurate, the situation could develop into an interesting coaching story involving two familiar figures in South African football.

For Orlando Pirates supporters, the possibility of their assistant coach taking charge of a rival Premiership club will be worth watching, although Ncikazi remains associated with the Buccaneers unless an official announcement states otherwise.

Source; https://www.facebook.com/61561499773281/posts/122227046078383325/?app=fbl