Willy Moloto Resigns as Polokwane City Coach to Focus on His Health

Polokwane City have been dealt a setback after head coach Willy Moloto confirmed his resignation from the club, bringing an early end to his time in charge of Rise and Shine. The coach has decided to step down after experiencing health challenges that have kept him away from the team for almost two months. His departure comes during the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign, leaving the Limpopo-based club facing an important decision about its technical leadership. Moloto has explained that his decision was motivated by the need to prioritise his health and what he believes is best for the team. Although he insists that he is feeling stronger, the former University of Pretoria assistant coach has chosen to focus on his recovery rather than continue in a demanding position.

Moloto took charge of Polokwane City ahead of the start of the current season following the departure of Phuti Mohafe. Mohafe left Rise and Shine to join Marumo Gallants, although he has since parted ways with the club. Polokwane City subsequently turned to Moloto, who had previously worked as an assistant coach at University of Pretoria. His appointment presented an opportunity to take another step in his coaching career by leading a Betway Premiership team. However, his time in charge has been disrupted by circumstances beyond the football pitch. The health problems he experienced over the past two months made it increasingly difficult for him to carry out his responsibilities consistently.

Reports indicate that Moloto collapsed after Polokwane City’s Betway Premiership match against AmaZulu in September. The incident raised concerns about his well-being and resulted in a period away from his coaching duties. He also spent time in hospital as he dealt with his health challenges. During his absence, Mkhuseli Sentane took responsibility for sitting on the bench and overseeing the team on matchdays. This arrangement allowed Polokwane City to continue their campaign despite the uncertainty surrounding their head coach’s availability. However, with Moloto having spent almost two months away from the team, the situation eventually led to his decision to resign.

Confirming his departure, Moloto made it clear that stepping down was a personal decision based on his desire to put the club first. He explained that being away from the players for such an extended period had influenced his thinking about the future. Rather than remain in a position where he could not give the team the attention it required, he decided that focusing on his health was the most responsible option. His comments also indicated that he did not want his personal circumstances to become an additional challenge for the club. The decision brings clarity to a situation that had remained uncertain while Sentane continued to handle the team’s matchday responsibilities.

Moloto also provided an update on his condition, offering some reassurance about his recovery. He explained that after the match against Siwelele, he visited a doctor and received instructions to take 10 days off. He insisted that he was now feeling strong, although he recognised the importance of looking after his health. His comments suggest that he is approaching the situation with a positive outlook despite the difficult circumstances surrounding his resignation. However, stepping away from coaching duties gives him an opportunity to concentrate on his well-being without the pressure of preparing a professional football team for regular league matches. The demanding nature of top-flight coaching makes physical and mental well-being important for anyone working in the technical area.

The resignation also leaves Polokwane City with questions about their immediate technical direction. Mkhuseli Sentane has already been involved in managing the team during Moloto’s absence, making him a familiar figure within the current coaching arrangement. Whether he will continue in that role permanently remains a separate decision for the club. Polokwane City will need to consider the available options and determine which coaching structure best supports their objectives for the remainder of the season. Stability will be important, particularly as the club looks to maintain its competitiveness in the Betway Premiership. The management will also want to avoid unnecessary disruption within the dressing room during an important stage of the campaign.

For Moloto, the resignation represents an unexpected interruption to an important opportunity in his coaching career. Moving from an assistant coaching position at University of Pretoria to leading Polokwane City was a significant professional step. Taking charge of a top-flight team comes with greater responsibility, including player management, tactical planning, match preparation and dealing with the pressure of results. His appointment at Rise and Shine offered him an opportunity to demonstrate his abilities as a head coach at the highest level of South African domestic football. Unfortunately, his health problems prevented him from enjoying the continuity required to fully establish himself in the position. His decision to resign means that his immediate priority will be recovering and ensuring that he remains healthy.

Polokwane City will now have to move forward without the coach who began the 2026/27 campaign in charge. Although his departure is not related to a confirmed disciplinary or performance issue, it creates an important vacancy within the club’s technical department. The circumstances also highlight the challenges professional football coaches face when balancing the demands of their jobs with personal health. Moloto’s decision to prioritise his recovery deserves recognition, especially given the responsibilities that come with managing a Betway Premiership side. For Rise and Shine, the focus will now shift towards maintaining stability and ensuring that the coaching transition does not negatively affect the team’s campaign.

Willy Moloto’s resignation marks the end of a short and challenging spell as Polokwane City head coach. His appointment followed Phuti Mohafe’s departure, but health difficulties ultimately prevented him from continuing in the role as planned. His decision to put the club first and concentrate on his recovery brings an end to the uncertainty surrounding his prolonged absence. While Mkhuseli Sentane has provided cover during this period, Polokwane City must now determine their long-term coaching plans. Moloto, meanwhile, will have the opportunity to focus on his health and consider his next professional steps when the time is right.