Manqoba Mngqithi, the former head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, is currently without a coaching job after the club decided to part ways with him on Tuesday, ending an 11-year association. Mngqithi, who had spent most of his tenure at Sundowns as an assistant manager, was promoted to head coach but only lasted a short time in the senior role before his departure. His stint as the head coach of Sundowns came to an abrupt end following a disappointing 1-1 draw against AS FAR Rabat in their second group-stage game of the CAF Champions League on December 7, 2024.
Mngqithi joined Mamelodi Sundowns in 2013, initially working as an assistant to various coaches before being appointed as head coach. During his time at the club, he was instrumental in helping Sundowns achieve domestic success and build a dominant team, but he had not spent much time as the top manager. His elevation to head coach came after Pitso Mosimane left the club for Al Ahly, but Mngqithi could not replicate the same level of success in the managerial role, which ultimately led to his dismissal.
With Mngqithi now out of a job, the question is where he could go next in his coaching career. Briefly News outlines several potential Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs that could benefit from his expertise. One of the most likely destinations is a return to his former club, Golden Arrows. The team’s co-head coach, Mabhuti Khenyeza, recently submitted his resignation letter, which has opened up the possibility of Arrows looking for a new coach. Should they decide to make a managerial change, Mngqithi would be a strong candidate to take over, given his vast experience in South African football and his previous success with Sundowns.
Beyond Golden Arrows, Mngqithi could also attract interest from other PSL clubs in need of a coach with his pedigree. His experience in both domestic and continental competitions makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to elevate their performance. Whether Mngqithi returns to Arrows or takes on a new challenge elsewhere, it is clear that he has the credentials to make an impact wherever he goes.
The future remains uncertain for Mngqithi, but with his track record in South African football, it’s only a matter of time before he finds a new club that can benefit from his expertise.
