Magesi FC shake things up after survival as Da Gama departs

So much for “if it ain’t broken, don’t try to fix it.”

Magesi FC appear to be fixing what many would argue wasn’t broken, the Limpopo outfit having severed ties with coach Owen da Gama — the man who helped them stave off relegation from the Betway Premiership last season.

Not only that, but the club is clearly undergoing a rebuild, having released a massive 10 players ahead of their second season in the elite league — some of them notable names.

Magesi looked destined for the drop after parting ways with Clinton Larsen, who had guided them to Carling Knockout glory at the expense of Mamelodi Sundowns. In came Da Gama, who managed to steady the ship, with the club also switching their home ground from the old Peter Mokaba Stadium to the Seshego Stadium.

At the compact township venue, Magesi proved nearly invincible, going unbeaten for more than five matches after losing their maiden game there. As a result, Dikwena tša Meetse (the Crocodiles) finished the season just above the play-off spot in 13th, securing their top-flight status.

While some squad strengthening was expected if the club hoped to be more competitive in the upcoming campaign, few would have predicted Da Gama’s sacking. However, it appears there was a disagreement over the terms of his contract renewal, and it remains unclear who will replace him.

Da Gama’s return to top-flight football had surprised many, given his lengthy spell in the lower leagues. But he held his own, keeping Magesi afloat — making the club’s decision to part ways with him all the more surprising.

Also raising eyebrows is the release of experienced striker Gift Motupa, who previously turned out for Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Baroka FC. He is among 10 players the club released in a statement on Sunday morning. Also departing are Neverdie Makhubela, Deolin Mekoa, Rhulani Manzini, Amos Mokwena, Boikanyo Komane, Maboke Matlakala, Anathi Ngwadla, Given Mashikinya, and Menzi Ndwandwe.

It’s a notable exodus, and it remains to be seen how the club will replace these players ahead of the new campaign, as they seek not only to survive but to establish themselves in the top tier of South African football.

The club stated that “further structural changes in preparation for the upcoming season will be announced in due course.”

Meanwhile, Motsepe Foundation Championship side AmaTuks are expected to unveil former Chippa United coach Kwanele Kopo as their new head coach this morning. The club has called a media conference, and Independent Media has it on good authority that the former SuperSport United assistant — who has also served on the technical teams of several national sides — will be tasked with guiding the University of Pretoria outfit to promotion.