The new head coach of Young Africans (Yanga), Mangoba Mngkiti, announced that his long-discussed move to Kaizer Chiefs did not materialize because the deal was blocked even before official negotiations began.
History of interest in the club
Mngkiti, who recently took charge of the Tanzanian champions, has frequently been linked with the possibility of working at Amakhosi throughout his coaching career. After leaving Mamelodi Sundowns in 2024, his name reappeared among the top contenders for the vacancy at Naturena before he returned to Golden Arrows.
The experienced coach now confirmed that the interest from Chiefs was real, but insists that external interference prevented this opportunity from being realized. Speaking on Radio 2000, Mngkiti stated that influential figures acted behind the scenes to derail any chance of his appointment at the Soweto-based team.
Allegations of external interference
Mngkiti emphasized: 'Chiefs' interest in me is not a lie, but it never happened because there are people who block such transfers.' He added that the club's interest was evident, and it had even recently persisted.
The coach noted that people always find ways to speak negatively about someone. He clarified that discussions about terms never reached the stage because someone obstructed it. Although he knows the person who did this and holds no grudge, he confirmed the interest from Chiefs.
Past collaboration and current situation
Mngkiti did not name the individual he believes hindered the transfer, but also mentioned that Chiefs' admiration for him has lasted for many years. Even before he joined the Sundowns technical team under Pitso Mosimane, he was invited to Naturena to present his vision for the club and meet with senior management.
He mentioned that even then, before joining Sundowns, Chiefs wanted him very much. Furthermore, he had friendly conversations with Kaizer Motaung Sr., knowing that the club had always shown interest in him, but for some reason, it never materialized. Mngkiti stated that this does not cause him problems, as there are many jobs in the world.
Despite constant rumors, Mngkiti never took the position of Chiefs head coach because the club chose other candidates over many years. Instead, the former assistant and head coach of Sundowns started a new chapter in East Africa after his appointment at Yanga, leaving Golden Arrows at the end of last season.
This move allows Mngkiti to add to his impressive coaching resume at one of the continent's largest clubs, while Chiefs continue their search for long-term stability after many years of instability.