Significant attention has been directed towards Manqoba Mngqithi following his recent appointment as the head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, succeeding Rulani Mokwena.
The club did not have to search extensively for a suitable candidate to fill the position left vacant by ‘Pep Lite,’ who has now taken charge at Wydad Casablanca.
Mngqithi previously served as the senior coach under Mokwena, more like a first assistant coach.
The two were appointed as Sundowns co-coaches in 2020/21 season when Pitso Mosimane left the club for greener pastures at Al Ahly.
In their second season together as co-coaches, they achieved remarkable success, securing a treble that included the MTN8, Nedbank Cup, and DStv Premiership titles.
However, the subsequent season saw the club undergo a restructuring of the technical team due to unsatisfactory performances, resulting in Mngqithi's demotion to the role of senior coach.
Where was he born?
Manqoba Brilliant Ferrimant Mngqithi was born on April 25, 1971, in uMzimkhulu, located in the South Coast region of KwaZulu-Natal, where he spent his formative years.
Did he have a professional football career?
Mngqithi stands out as one of the few coaches who did not have a professional playing career in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
He dedicated himself to advancing his career and establishing a reputable name in coaching.
Previous profession prior to becoming a coach
Before embarking on his coaching journey, Mngqithi served as a school teacher for over 15 years, after which he chose to resign in order to fully commit to a career in professional coaching.
COACHING CAREER
- Maritzburg City
He began his career as an assistant coach at Maritzburg City who were plying their trade in the third tier, Castle League (now known as ABC Motsepe League).
He later took over and became the head coach of the club.
- Moja United
Following his departure from Maritzburg City, Mngqithi went on to join Moja United who were playing in the same league.
In 2003, they were sold to a Durban businessman Phindani Nene and were renamed Durban Stars FC.
- Royal Tigers
Following his departure from Moja United, he took charge of another third-tier team, Royal Tigers, before briefly managing the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
- Lamontville Golden Arrows (first stint)
In 2007, he was appointed by Golden Arrows, where Mato Madlala placed her trust in a coach from the lower division to lead a top-flight team.
In a relatively short period, Mngqithi transformed Abafana Bes’thende into a formidable side in the top-tier.
He led the KwaZulu-Natal outfit to MTN8 success in 2009, achieving an resounding 6-0 win against Ajax Cape Town in the final.
- AmaZulu FC
Following his successful tenure with Arrows, he joined AmaZulu FC, a club in distress seeking to improve their fortunes. However, he departed from the club at the conclusion of the season.
- Chippa United
The following campaign, he signed with Chippa United, a team newly promoted to the senior league.
His tenure was unexpectedly cut short after just two matches, following losses to Mamelodi Sundowns and Free State Stars.
- Lamontville Golden Arrows (second stint)
In 2013, he made a return to Arrows, coaching the team for one season before leaving abruptly in the midseason.
- Mamelodi Sundowns
Mngqithi subsequently joined Mamelodi Sundowns in 2014 during Pitso Mosimane's tenure.
He experienced significant success under Mosimane as an assistant coach before advancing to roles as co-coach and head coach.
Relationship with famous actress Asavela Mngqithi, other kids
Mngqithi is the father to Asavela Mqokiyana (previously Mngqithi). Asavela gained prominence as an actor in the popular telenovela Isibaya.
In addition to Asavela, Mngqithi has other children. One of his sons is was working at Sundowns. He has now moved to AmaZulu FC, working in the media department.
