BY: Saneliso Mlambo
In a move that has sent ripples through the South African football community, Manqoba Mngqithi has made a sensational return to Golden Arrows. The highly-rated coach, who parted ways with Mamelodi Sundowns midway through the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season, has taken the reins at the KZN-based side for a third stint.
Mngqithi’s departure from Sundowns in July 2024 came after a turbulent six months as head coach. His tenure proved to be far shorter than expected, but with his vast experience and a deep understanding of South African football, it was always clear that Mngqithi would be back in the saddle sooner rather than later.
His journey at Arrows began in 2007, when he made his breakthrough in coaching. After leaving the club in 2010 to take charge at AmaZulu FC and Chippa United, he returned to Arrows in 2012. However, it was his move to Mamelodi Sundowns a year later, where he became Pitso Mosimane’s trusted assistant, that truly set his career alight.
During his time in Tshwane, Mngqithi earned a reputation as a tactician capable of masterminding some of the club’s most successful campaigns, including the 2016 CAF Champions League title. Mngqithi’s time as co-coach alongside Rulani Mokwena between 2020 and 2022 brought further accolades, but it was when Mokwena took over as the sole head coach that Mngqithi found himself seeking new challenges.
A brief spell at the helm of Sundowns in 2024, however, ended in disappointment, leaving him on the sidelines for a while. But now, after a period of reflection, he returns to Golden Arrows with a wealth of experience and a point to prove.
Arrows’ current position in the Premiership is far from ideal. Sitting 11th in the standings with just 20 points from 16 matches, the club is struggling to find consistency. Five wins, five draws, and six losses have left them in a precarious position, and Mngqithi’s task is to steady the ship and steer them towards a brighter future.
Abafana Besthende fans will be hoping that Mngqithi can rekindle the magic that saw the club lift the MTN8 trophy in 2009 under his guidance. That was a significant moment in the club’s history, and they’ll be hoping that with Mngqithi’s return, they can return to the top half of the table and challenge for silverware once more.