Highlanders FC: A season of uncertainty and change...

Highlanders FC: A season of uncertainty and change

Philemon Jambaya

Zim Now Editor

Highlanders Football Club, one of Zimbabwe's most storied clubs, is navigating a tumultuous season marked by coaching changes, new player signings, and uncertainty about its future. Despite the chaos, the team is gearing up for a crucial match against Ngezi Platinum Stars at Barbourfields Stadium.

In a surprise move, Highlanders has engaged former coach Pieter De Jongh on a four-month contract to guide the team to the end of the season. De Jongh's appointment has raised eyebrows, especially with the club's refusal to comment on the matter. Sources close to the club indicate that De Jongh has met with the technical team, including interim coach Try Ncube, and is expected to play a key role in the team's remaining matches.

Adding to the speculation are reports of five new foreign players who have joined the squad, with some allegedly watching the team's match against Triangle at Barbourfields Stadium last week. The club's outgoing spokesperson, Nozibelo Maphosa, declined to comment on the new signings, citing her impending departure from the role.

Under interim coach Try Ncube, Highlanders has struggled to find consistency, winning only one of six matches since taking over from Zambian coach Kelvin Kaindu. The team is currently ninth on the log with 28 points, 11 games to go, and is not out of the woods yet, with Yadah sitting on the relegation cut-off point just a win and a draw away.

Despite the challenges, Ncube remains optimistic about the team's chances, saying, "We are Highlanders. We know what we have to do, and we will do that definitely – fight for the badge and get favourable results." The team's upcoming match against Ngezi Platinum Stars will be a crucial test of their resolve.

The club is also undergoing a leadership transition. Denzil Mnkandla assumes office today as the new substantive CEO, bringing a new set of expectations and challenges. With the team's fate hanging in the balance, Highlanders fans can only hope that the changes will bring about a much-needed turnaround in fortunes.