Ex Leruma United head coach Mpho Maleka.
By Refilwe Sebola
Mpho Maleka, a veteran South African coach known for his tactical expertise and resilience, is back on the job market following his departure from National First Division newcomers Leruma United.
The experienced tactician, who holds a CAF B coaching license, is currently without a club but remains passionate about the game.
Maleka’s coaching journey is a rich narrative that spans the entire spectrum of South African football. He has navigated the grassroots battles of the ABC Motsepe League, the demanding National First Division, and the prestigious Premier Soccer League, gaining valuable experience along the way. His most notable achievement was guiding Marumo Gallants to victory in the 2021 Nedbank Cup against Chippa United, a success accomplished with Englishman Dylan Kerr serving as the technical director.
Before embarking on his coaching career, Maleka made his mark as a professional player, representing several iconic clubs, including the now-defunct Moroka Swallows, Amazulu, and Mpumalanga Black Aces, which has since been rebranded as Cape Town City. His background as a player has contributed to a calm and measured coaching style that has earned him respect throughout the football community.
Despite his impressive credentials, Maleka’s recent tenure at Leruma United was challenging. He was tasked with leading the new NFD team with minimal support—without an assistant coach, goalkeeper coach, or analyst. Nevertheless, he persevered, instilling discipline and organization in a struggling team. When he left, Leruma was positioned at the bottom of the table, and despite the arrival of new technical staff, the team continues to fight against relegation.
Prior to his time at Leruma, Maleka led ABC Motsepe League sides such as Giyani Happy Boys, Wonderers and Mvuti FC, achieving top standings in KwaZulu-Natal. At Happy Boys, he narrowly missed out on the league title due to unresolved off-field issues. His tactical skills also shone on the continental stage, where he, alongside Raymond Mdaka, helped Marumo Gallants qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage. This achievement included a remarkable 2-1 victory over AS Vita in Polokwane and a commendable 1-1 draw away in the DRC.
Now, Maleka is considering his next steps. “I’m looking to return to the PSL or NFD, but I’m also open to opportunities abroad,” he stated in a recent interview. With his blend of experience, tactical knowledge, and leadership under pressure, it’s only a matter of time before he finds himself back in the dugout.
Clubs in need of a proven leader would do well to consider Mpho Maleka—a coach who has truly earned his place in every tier of South African football.