Dan Malesela is back at Baroka FC.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Dan Malesela has returned to Baroka FC as their head coach, as announced by team boss Khurishi Mphahlele. Malesela left Baroka during last season’s playoffs under controversial circumstances, facing allegations that he was recruiting Baroka players to other teams in the elite league.
He managed to oversee only one playoff game before his departure and was replaced by Morgan Mamila, who subsequently failed to secure promotion for the team.
After leaving Baroka, Malesela joined Premier Soccer League (PSL) side Marumo Gallants but was later replaced there as well. He now returns to a Baroka team that has struggled to achieve consistent victories since the resignation of their former coach, Joel Masutha, who has since joined Black Leopards.
The team, known as “Bakgaga ba ga Mphahlele,” has not performed well under interim coach Amukelani “Jayjay” Hlongwani, losing two of their last three games and drawing one. “JayJay” has been reverted to his original position as assistant coach.
Malesela’s primary challenge will be to uplift the team’s performance and aim for a possible playoff spot. Many of Baroka’s loyal supporters are excited about his return and are hopeful that he will lead the team to success. Malesela’s first game back will be against Black Leopards, coached by his predecessor, Joel Masutha, next week. This match is anticipated to be tense, as both teams will be vying for the same goal: securing a playoff spot. Masutha will be looking for a much-needed win against his former team.