I WASN’T PUSHED OUT – EX-NSINGIZINI COACH

MBABANE - “It was my personal decision to depart from Nsingizini Hotspurs.” These were the words of departed former Nsingizini Zimbabwe-born Coach Alexio Sigion. He resigned late last week. The Times Sports Desk engaged with the coach while he watched the double-header featuring Mbabane Swallows, Madlenya, Moneni Pirates and Royal Leopard at Mavuso Sports Centre, two days ago.

“It was a personal decision to leave. I consulted with the club prior to submitting my resignation, and it was a mutual agreement.” When asked what prompted his resignation at a time when the team appeared to be performing well, he stated: “There are personal issues that cannot be divulged. However, there was no animosity between me and the team. I want to express my gratitude to President Derrick Shiba for affording me the opportunity to coach the team.”

He expressed confidence that, despite his departure, the club’s vision remains clear. “They will continue to flourish in my absence. Football is like that; you join a team and at some point, you must part ways.” When enquired whether he would remain in Eswatini or return to his home country of Zimbabwe, he replied: “I am awaiting Nsingizini to sort me out. Once everything is finalised, I will consider whether to accept offers or travel back home.” He noted that he has not yet received any offers from local teams.

Positively

Sigion also commended Eswatini for the warm reception he received from its people, remarking that it reflects positively on the country. “I would like to thank my fellow coaches for their commendable efforts in elevating the standard of football in the nation. The talent is abundant, and I hope Eswatini players can gain exposure and compete in other countries.” He emphasised that hard work and consistency are crucial for local players aspiring to play abroad.

When asked to identify players he believed could excel in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), he refrained from naming individuals, noting that the wealth of talent in Eswatini made it a challenging task. Sigion joined Hotspurs after taking over from Meck Mwase in January 2024. Approximately a year later, he departs without silverware.
He finished third in the 2023/24 season and led the team to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Confederation Cup, where they suffered an 8-0 aggregate defeat to South Africa top division side Stellenbosch.

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