MBABANE – A major shift has occurred within the Manzini Wanderers technical bench following the reappointment of former Coach Nyanga ‘Crooks’ Hlophe.
Hlophe, who led the side for the opening four matches of the season before the arrival of Gcina Dlamini, returns to the fold just weeks after Gcina’s dismissal on January 20, 2025.
While Zenzele ‘Ace’ Dlamini was unveiled as the Head Coach only three days later, the club has opted to bolster the dugout following a string of poor results.
Wanderers PRO Sandile ‘Ntofo’ Dlamini confirmed that the club has reengaged Hlophe to serve in the capacity of Assistant Coach.
The veteran gaffer, Hlophe, needs no introduction at Wanderers. At over 70, he is often dubbed the oldest coach in the Premier League. He was the first coach to win the MTN League with Wanderers in the first ‘Y’ello’ season (2002/03). In 2008/09 , alongside ‘Ace, they steered Mbabane Swallows to league glory.
Hlophe expressed his willingness to return to the hub giants, citing his lifelong support for the team as the primary reason he could not decline the offer.
He noted that while he is prepared to assist, the task ahead remains formidable, especially as the mid-season transfer window has already closed, preventing him from recommending new signings.
Hlophe maintained that he has no reservations about working alongside ‘Ace’ or any other member of the staff to steady the ship. He said he was awaiting formal briefing from his team.
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