Thanda Royal Zulu assistant coach Stavros Tsichlas has resigned from his post while the club has also parted ways with goalkeeper Mandlenkosi Tsengwa, who has subsequently signed for University of Pretoria.
Tsichlas, the son of former Mamelodi Sundowns’ directors Angelo and Anastasia, told Soccer-Laduma that he needs a new challenge in his life.
“I’ve parted ways amicably,” he says. “After seven years in the NFD including the last four which were full of court case drama one gets a bit sick and tired so I’m now ready for a bit of a new challenge.”
University of Pretoria head coach Steve Barker confirmed Tsengwa’s signing which he hopes will add competition in the keeper department.
“We rate Mandlenkosi,” Barker explains. “He has great potential, is a solid keeper. Our Zimbabwean international Washington Arubi has done a good job for us, but by also having Tsengwa and Tristyn Coetsee, there’s a bit more competition for the number one spot.”
The move to the PSL for Tsengwa means that Tsichlas, who doubles up as a goalkeeper coach, has interestingly ‘promoted’ four men to the top flight. The other three include, Siya Mngoma of Lamontville Golden Arrows, Kaizer Chiefs’ Nhlanhla Khuzwayo and Coetsee.
“Tsengwa was in no-man’s land for a long time before I converted him into a top keeper,” concluded Tsichlas.
