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Pitso Mosimane (Getty Images)
- Pitso Mosimane has resigned as Mamelodi Sundowns manager.
- The former head of the Bafana Bafana will now join a major Egyptian club, known as Al-Ahly.
- Mosimane has been with the Sundowns for eight seasons, winning five PSL titles in that time.
In a shocking turn of events, Pitso Mosimane has resigned as head coach of the PSL champions and South African soccer giants Sundowns Mamelodi.
Reports on Wednesday morning had suggested that Mosimane was dating with a transfer to the Egyptian club Al-AHly, his most likely destination.
Then, on Wednesday afternoon, Mosimane issued a statement on his official Twitter account confirming his resignation.
“It is with a feeling of pain and sadness that I announce my departure from Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club.” Mosimane wrote.
“I have accepted an offer to join an international team.
“Mamelodi Sundowns has been my family for almost eight years. President Dr. Patrice Motsepe has been like a father to me. He has been a mentor, friend, supporter and confidante. I could never leave him or Mamelodi Sundowns “.
“I’m just going to take the spirit of the Yellow Nation with me.
“After winning five league titles with Mamelodi Sundowns, the 10th for the club, how can a man say goodbye to his home easily? How can I say goodbye to the family, the board, the fans and the fans?
“From the bottom of my heart, I am so grateful that the President has blessed my move. I expected no less from a man who has been so kind and generous to me. He is the kind of leader in any family, company, team, and made any country needs it.
“I have been privileged to drink from your well of wisdom. My success is your success. Without him, I would not have achieved half of what I have.
“I leave this family knowing that our bond is unbreakable and hoping that as time goes by our paths will come together again. This is not a divorce. We will remain united forever. I am taking on this new challenge that will get me out of the way.” out of my comfort zone.
“I know Mamelodi Sundowns will use this as a fresh and fresh perspective. While I had four years left on my contract, this offer is a great opportunity for me that would not have come if I had not had the privilege of being part of the team that he led. Mamelodi Sundowns to win the CAF Champions League and reach the final of the Club World Cup.
“I am the first to admit that on this trip there were mistakes and hiccups, but there were more laughter, victories, successes and camaraderie. And this I take with me to my next destination, never accentuate challenges over achievements. For all my shortcomings, I ask apologies to the president and the Yellow Nation. I wish Mamelodi Sundowns every success in defending the titles. “
Sundowns also confirmed the news with Motsepe giving Mosimane his blessing.
“Pitso Mosimane and his agent Moira Tlhagale, who is also his wife, came to inform me about the discussions between Pitso Mosimane and a major Egyptian club.” Motsepe said in a statement.
“Sundowns has been aware of the ongoing discussions between Pitso Mosimane and the Egyptian club and with other clubs in North Africa. In recent years I have repeatedly expressed my support for Pitso Mosimane to leave Sundowns as coach in the North. from Africa, Europe or Bafana Bafana Footballers and coaches sometimes have an uncertain and inconsistent future and must seek new opportunities where they can grow and receive higher remuneration.
“I have received a warm and emotional note from Pitso and am very proud of his accomplishments at Mamelodi Sundowns. Pitso has been the most successful coach in Sundowns history and will always be a member of the Mamelodi Sundowns family. I wish him, Moira and his family all the best and I hope to see him soon as a coach in Europe. “
Sundowns confirmed that further announcements regarding the composition of the coaching staff will be made in due course.
With five PSL titles and 11 trophies in his eight years at Sundowns, Mosimane has become the most decorated coach in the history of South African football.
– Compiled by Lloyd Burnard