In a surprising turn of events, Morooka Swallows have announced the resignation of head coach Steve Kompela, in what is being described as a mutual separation.
The decision was taken after several discussions between the Soweto giants and the 56-year-old coach and represents a significant change for both parties.
“Morooka Swallows and Coach Steve have agreed to a mutual separation. This has followed several rounds of discussion between both parties and it is ultimately the decision of both the club and Coach Steve to separate at this stage. “We agreed that it was in the best interests of the public.” the club said in a statement released Monday night.
Although such partings are often accompanied by tensions and disagreements, the club emphasized that there is mutual respect between both parties.
“The club wishes Coach Steve all the best in his future endeavors and is grateful for the contribution he has made to the club.”
Komphela surprised many when he left his job as senior coach at Mamelodi Sundowns to join Dube Birds on a one-year contract in July 2023.
He had one year left on his contract with Masandawana, but conversations with Swallows chairman David Mogashoa saw him return to the head coaching hot seat.
At the same time, he also persuaded veteran midfielder Andil Jali to join him on the trip.
Under Kompela's guidance, the Swallows performed admirably, adopting a defensive approach and playing boldly from the back, but this strategy was met with initial skepticism.
However, in late December 2023, operational and club issues beyond Mr. Kompela's control surfaced.
Swallows were unable to play against Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows in December, despite management and players going on strike in protest over the impasse over salaries, resulting in a hefty R1 million payout. A fine was imposed and eventually Kompela quietly left the club during that period.
Moussa Nyatama was replaced as interim coach and sat in the dugout for the 1-0 defeat to Polokwane City at the weekend when the DStv Premiership resumed after the suspension of the African Cup of Nations.
According to our sister publication Kickoff, Kompela will return to the Golden Arrows aiming to correct their recent losing streak.
He hasn't been in the dugout since mid-December, but his fascinating postgame interviews could soon see him back on screen.