Orlando Pirates chairman Dr Irvin Khoza has reacted following the departure of long-serving assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi.
After days of speculation, the Buccaneers confirmed that the 57-year-old will be leaving the club to take up the Head Coach position at a team in the Premier Soccer League.
“The move follows discussions with management this morning in which Mr Ncikazi expressed his wish to pursue the opportunity to lead a team again. The Club has given him its blessing to do so,” the club said in a statement.
Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza thanked Ncikazi and acknowledged his ambition to return to head coaching.
“Mandla leaves with our gratitude and our blessing. His contribution to Orlando Pirates has been evident throughout his time with us. We respect his wish to pursue this new opportunity and wish him success as he takes on a new responsibility,” said Dr Khoza.
Pirates fans praise Ncikazi following his departure
Many Orlando Pirates fans took to social media to thank the departed coach.
@malalaveve wrote: “He was there during the rainy days.”
@mr_shimmy wrote: “Farewell coach Mandla. You served the team with dedication and determination. All the best in your new role.
@kanyane23 wrote: “Farewell taMindlo. Thank you for serving the Ghost with professionalism throughout.”
With Ncikazi having left Pirates, it is believed he will return to Golden Arrows as head coach. He departs the club with nine trophies as part of the Bucs technical team, where he served mostly as an assistant coach.