Despite the backing he enjoys as Marumo Gallants' head coach, Dan Malesela finds himself under growing pressure to deliver positive results or risk losing his job.
Earlier this season, Malesela was placed on 'special leave' as Gallants struggled under his leadership. By December, the club was 12th on the Betway Premiership log with just 10 points – only two above the relegation zone.
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With three wins, one draw, and five losses in nine matches, concerns over the team's form led to his temporary absence.
However, before the year ended, Gallants reinstated Malesela in a move that raised eyebrows.
His return, though, has not significantly improved the club's fortunes. Since his comeback, Gallants have secured just one win, two draws, and two losses.
During his absence, the team also suffered two defeats under assistant coaches Sundra Govinder and Duncan Lechesa.
As they prepare to face league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns at the Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium tonight, Malesela is under immense pressure to secure a result.
Sources suggest that a failure to do so could see him lose his job as the head coach.
Gallants now sit 14th in the standings, only one point above a resurgent Magesi FC, who continue to gather momentum in their bid for survival.
While Malesela has guided Bahlabane Ba Ntwa to the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals, his league struggles could prove costly.
Unless Gallants' form improves quickly, his position at the club remains in jeopardy.
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As reported by the Siya crew, Moroccan coach Abdeslam Ouaddou could be the man targeted to join the club in efforts to improve the results and position on the log.
"The coach (Malesela) is facing a mammoth task of having to get nothing but a win against Sundowns, or there could be consequences, unfortunately. Football is results-driven, and unfortunately the team finds itself in its current position, and changes are being planned if the situation doesn't improve," said the source.
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