Young Africans Part Ways With Manqoba Mngqithi Despite Strong Start to Season
Young Africans have officially announced the departure of head coach Manqoba Mngqithi with immediate effect, bringing an abrupt end to his tenure at the Tanzanian giants despite a largely successful start to the campaign.
The decision was confirmed by the club on Saturday in a statement that also revealed the exit of assistant coach Chyna Mokaila. The move comes at a crucial stage of the season as Yanga continue to compete on multiple fronts domestically and on the continent.
Mngqithi leaves the club having overseen 13 matches, recording an impressive 10 victories, two draws and just one defeat. Under his guidance, Young Africans scored 29 goals while conceding only seven, highlighting the team’s dominance during much of his spell in charge.
The South African coach also guided the club to Community Shield glory and successfully secured qualification for the CAF Champions League group stages, achievements that appeared to strengthen his position at the club.
However, recent results in the Tanzanian Premier League seem to have altered the mood around the team’s title ambitions. Saturday’s frustrating draw against TRA United proved costly in the race for the championship.
The result saw Young Africans lose further ground on league leaders Simba SC, who are coached by Steve Barker. Yanga now find themselves five points behind their fierce rivals, increasing the pressure on the club’s hierarchy to respond.
In a statement, the club confirmed the coaching changes, saying: “Young Africans Sports Club management informs the public that it has decided to terminate the contract of first-team head coach Manqoba Mngqithi.”
The statement continued: “It has also terminated the contract of first-team assistant coach Chyna Mokaila.”
The club also expressed gratitude to both coaches for their efforts during their time at the club. “Management thanks both for their contributions to the club and wishes them success in their future roles,” the statement read.
Young Africans have already begun the search for a replacement as they seek to reignite their title challenge and maintain their ambitions in the CAF Champions League. “The process to appoint a new head coach has already begun and is expected to be completed soon,” the club concluded.