In a surprising move, Manzini Wanderers, already struggling in the football hub, faces a potential crisis as coach Nyangayezizwe ‘Crooks’ Hlophe reveals his uncertainty about the co-coaching role alongside experienced Zimbabwean coach Ikabort Masocha.

Hlophe admitted to being unfamiliar with the co-coaching system but expressed his willingness to adapt and learn. “Honestly, I haven’t been in such a set-up before, but nothing is lost. In life, you learn till you die, so I will adapt and learn,” said Hlophe, emphasizing their shared goal of steering the team clear of relegation.

However, the veteran coach expressed frustration at the lack of communication regarding the decision to make him a co-coach. “I feel like those responsible for the team’s management could have informed me about the technical changes rather than taking me by surprise,” said Hlophe, who insisted on staying with the team out of his deep love for Wanderers.

Hlophe acknowledged Masocha as a good and experienced coach, expressing hope that their collaboration would benefit the team. Yet, he remained tight-lipped about the salary issue, deferring comments and focusing on the task at hand.

The decision to bring in nomadic coach Masocha was an attempt to reverse the team’s poor performance, placing them in the relegation zone. Masocha welcomed the partnership with Hlophe, stating, “I have agreed to join the team, and I made it clear to them that I do not mind working with coach Nyanga Hlophe. I think he knows the team better, and working with him can make things easier for me.”

As Manzini Wanderers embarks on this uncharted co-coaching experiment, the team’s fate hangs in the balance, with players and fans anxiously awaiting the outcome of this unconventional managerial strategy.