Arthur Zwane has a fresh opportunity to prove himself as the sole head coach of AmaZulu FC after the sudden resignation of his co-coach, Vusimuzi Vilakazi. The duo was appointed co-coaches in October 2024 following Pablo Franco Martin’s sacking.
Mangethe was given the platform to revitalise his coaching career following a particularly turbulent period at Kaizer Chiefs. Together, the duo has successfully steered Usuthu into sixth place in the DSTV Premiership standings.
Now solely in charge, Zwane must guide the team forward without his co-coach.
VUSIMUZI VILAKAZI STEPS DOWN AS AMAZULU FC CO-COACH
The decision to depart Usuthu was abrupt from the former Richards Bay and Golden Arrows head coach. He cited urgent family emergencies as the reason for his departure.
𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗕 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧: AmaZulu FC announces the resignation of Co-Head Coach Vusi Vilakazi 👉🏾 https://t.co/q0VtZECcjn 📲#Isagila #HebeUsuthu #UsuthuTogether pic.twitter.com/wzfuE2dmnW
— AmaZulu FC (@AmaZuluFootball) February 25, 2025
“AmaZulu Football Club has announced the resignation of Co-Head Coach Vusi Vilakazi, who wished to step down with immediate effect,” the club announced in a statement.
“In his letter of resignation, Vilakazi referred to the personal matters (which) require his urgent attention, making it impossible for him to fully commit to his responsibilities at the club.”
“Club President Sandile Zungu has accepted Vilakazi’s request to be relieved of his duties with immediate effect. This transition leaves Arthur “Phakimpi” Zwane as the sole Head Coach, going forward.” The statement further read.
With Vilakazi’s departure, Zwane now takes the reins as the sole head coach, a role that comes with new challenges and opportunities. Following AmaZulu’s dominant 3-0 win over Magesi FC, Mangethe spoke about the team’s potential and his drive for even better results.
ZWANE BELIEVES THE TEAM CAN PERFORM EVEN BETTER
These were Arthur Zwane’s sentiments after AmaZulu defeated Magesi FC 3-0 in their last Betway Premiership encounter over the past weekend. His desire to strive for more will be a key ingredient if he is to finish the season strongly.
“We’re still not happy because we believe we can do much better than what we are doing now,” Zwane elaborated.
“You must have seen in previous games that we’ve let ourselves down, and I keep reminding the players that the only team that can beat AmaZulu is AmaZulu.”
“It’s just a case of mindset and belief from our players that we can be up there in the league, but we keep beating ourselves.” He stated.
This allows Zwane to strengthen his reputation after his spell as Kaizer Chiefs head coach.
DOES ARTHUR HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO TAKE CHARGE OF AMAZULU?
Usuthu has faced challenges in the Betway Premiership since Benni McCarthy’s departure in 2022. Under his leadership, the club achieved a record high of second place, finishing just behind Mamelodi Sundowns.
Since then, AmaZulu has struggled to even finish in the top 8.
Arthur Zwane and Vusimuzi Vilakazi have helped Usuthu to 6th place in the league, which is quite positive given the club’s performance in recent years.
This will be Mangethe’s test: will he be able to maintain the good performances that he has overseen alongside Vilakazi?
Do you believe that Arthur Zwane can succeed as the sole head coach at Usuthu? Does he possess the ability to achieve a top-eight finish this season?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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