Mamelodi Sundowns recently parted ways with former head coach Manqoba Mngqithiearlier this week in shock news.
Mngqithi had stepped up as head coach of Sundowns after the departure of Rulani Mokwena for Wydad Casablanca.
Chiefs were linked to Mngqithi
But before signing on to stay at Sundowns, there were rumours that Mngqithi was of interest to Kaizer Chiefs. Amakhosi had parted ways with Cavin Johnsonand had been drawing up a shortlist of coaches for the permanent role. It was believed that the former Golden Arrows was one the mentors that was being considered by the Motaung family for the role.
It was later established that Chiefs were not considering Mngqithi and Mngqithi was focused on Sundowns too. In the end he stayed put while Amakhosi appointed current head coach Nasreddine Nabi. But once upon a time there was mutual interest between the two parties.
Speaking to MSW as per Soccer-Laduma, Mngqithi admits that he could’ve joined Chiefs before committing to Sundowns!
Turned down Amakhosi for Sundowns
“One would say, ‘what was on your mind when you joined Sundowns at that time?’ They had not won anything and they had some top players – but my mind was it would be nice to bring this team back to it’s former glory. For me that project made sense because at the time it looked defunct to someone from the outside because for seven years this club had not won anything because at the time I had an approach from Chiefs prior to Sundowns and I did my presentation at Chiefs and then suddenly Sundowns came when there was a slight delay and when I took that opportunity, I did not even want to still chat with Chiefs to find out what was happening with them. Chiefs were winning, but I felt it would be nice to be part of this environment,”said Mngqithi.
Chiefs fans do you think Mngqithi would’ve been a success at the club? Feel free to leave your thoughts and feelings in the comments below.
