Highlanders FC find themselves at a critical crossroads after confirming Benjani Mwaruwari as their new head coach, a move that has deepened divisions among supporters and raised  questions about the club’s long-term direction.

The appointment of the former Warriors captain comes after a week of speculation linking Bosso to businessman Wicknell Chivayo, whose financial backing was  tied to Benjani’s installation. While the club has officially confirmed the details of Chivayo’s involvement, many fans believe the decision marks a turning point in how Highlanders will be run going forward.

At the centre of the storm is Thabo Senong, who had earlier been announced as Highlanders’ head coach but has been stuck in South Africa after failing to secure a work permit. Senong  travelled to Zimbabwe but was reportedly sent back by immigration officials as his documentation was still incomplete.

Now, with Benjani officially in charge, the future of Senong remains uncertain. Supporters are questioning whether he will stay on as an assistant, be paid without working, or agree to a mutual termination of his contract.

“So this South African guy is just going to be given money without doing any work or we now already have a debt to him?” questioned Ngonidzashe Muperere.

Beyond Senong’s situation, the bigger concern for many fans is what happens if Benjani fails to deliver results in a club that has already endured a turbulent period. Highlanders struggled during the 2025 season, flirting with relegation and parting ways with Kelvin Kaindu and Pieter de Jongh after poor performances.

“My question is what will happen if Benjie struggles for results. We all know the pressure that comes with such big clubs,” said Obert Matadi.

Some supporters fear that Benjani’s position may be untouchable because of the alleged sponsorship dynamics.

“So if results don’t come what will Highlanders do? Will they keep Benjani as the head coach even if he fails to deliver? I don’t understand why a sponsor can dictate how the coach is appointed,” said Panganai Masiiwa.

The Senong work permit delay has also fuelled conspiracy theories, with sections of the Bosso faithful believing it was deliberately stalled to pave the way for Benjani.

“So it wouldn’t be far-fetched to think that Senong’s work permit is being sabotaged so Bosso ends up with Tufuza’s preferred coach,” wrote Patrick Ndlovu on social media.

Others went further, alleging financial pressure.

“There is no work permit issue there. Chivhayo is withholding his monies till his wishes are met. This one is gone forever, Benjani had came in ,” claimed Qubekhani Christopher.

Yet not all supporters are opposed to the move. Some argue that Highlanders’ financial reality leaves the club with little choice but to accept external influence.

“I see no tangible reason for refusing this offer, especially when the same person has been a game-changer for the club in trying times,” said Mbusoi Dhlamini. “If you had denied it and the club struggled to pay players, fans would be quick to boo you off the pitch.”

Another supporter, Mthabisi Ndlovu, took a more political view of the situation.

“I see some supporters saying the club has sold out, but realistically, what options do they have? It’s either you agree or you disagree and shut down the club. This is Zimbabwe, it’s their way or they sabotage your plans.”

However, resistance remains strong among traditionalists who fear that Bosso’s identity and independence are being compromised.

“Why they’re trying to impose Benjani as our Bosso coach, it’s politics sibabhekile,” said Bukhose Khumalo.

For now, Highlanders have remained silent on Senong’s contractual status, the alleged talks with Chivhayo, and whether Benjani’s appointment is permanent or conditional. What is clear is that the club’s future is now tied not only to results on the pitch, but also to off-field power dynamics that many supporters find unsettling.

As one fan bluntly put it, “If Benjani succeeds, they will say the deal was worth it. If he fails, Bosso might discover they traded their independence for nothing.”