Owen Da Gama Breaks Silence on Shock Move to Botswana’s Black Lions FC

Veteran South African coach Owen Da Gama has officially joined Black Lions FC, a newly acquired Botswana Premier League side, after parting ways with Magesi FC in unexpected fashion during the pre-season. The move marks a fresh chapter for the experienced tactician, widely known in South African football circles as “Rubber Doll.”

Da Gama was instrumental in steering Magesi to safety in the Premier Soccer League last season, only to be released shortly before the 2024/25 campaign began. His sudden departure surprised many, including the coach himself.

“I enjoyed my time at Magesi, and I’m glad I was able to help them avoid relegation. Things looked dire when I arrived,” Da Gama told KickOff. “It was unfortunate that we had to part ways. I was genuinely shocked by Magesi’s decision. However, as a professional, I had to accept it because I believe God has plans for everyone.”

The Lions, who recently purchased the top-flight status of VTM Football Club, are currently in pre-season training in South Africa. Da Gama revealed how quickly the deal came together once Black Lions management made contact.

“I received a call from the chairman, and we began discussing the opportunity. He followed up with me, and we took it from there. They came to see me, and I signed yesterday. The Lions management wants us to build a strong team there,” he explained.

Da Gama penned a three-year deal with the Botswana-based club, with the immediate goal of avoiding relegation in their debut season.

“I have signed a three-year contract, and this year’s mandate is to avoid relegation. We obviously need to improve over time since we are starting from scratch,” he added.

The 62-year-old also spoke candidly about why he chose to take a job outside of South Africa, pointing to the lack of opportunities in the local market despite his proven track record.

“In the PSL, how do you apply for a job when people already know your CV and your achievements? If people want you, they should come and talk to you. Unfortunately, nobody approached me,” he said. “I believe the issue was that my departure from Magesi was late, after the pre-season started, which meant many teams had already appointed their coaches.”

Da Gama refrained from addressing speculation about behind-the-scenes politics in South African football but hinted at frustrations that may have influenced his decision to move abroad.

“I won’t comment on any rumours about coaches backstabbing each other in South African football, because one needs proof for such claims. However, I sometimes wonder why certain things happen,” he said.

Black Lions have already begun preparations for the upcoming season and tested their squad in friendlies against South African clubs. They edged Pretoria Callies 3-2 but lost 2-0 to Tuks. Da Gama, still easing into the role, observed from the bench during the matches.

“I just sat on the bench to observe and didn’t involve myself too much in the games,” he said. “I chose Black Lions because it represents something fresh and different. Exposure drives character. I’m eager to coach in a different country and gain new experiences. I’m happy they chose me.”

With his wealth of experience and fresh motivation, Owen Da Gama’s move to Black Lions FC could be one of the most intriguing cross-border coaching stories in African football this season.