Kruger United Appoint Vusumuzi Vilakazi as New Head Coach for 2025/26 Season

Soon after parting ways with their former head coach, Kruger United have announced the appointment of Vusumuzi Vilakazi as the man to lead the team into the 2025/26 season. The Mpumalanga-based side, fresh from an impressive debut campaign in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, are looking to build on their momentum with this bold coaching change.

Kruger United surprised many in the local football community when they amicably ended their relationship with outgoing coach Mangoya earlier this week. The decision raised eyebrows, especially given the club’s strong performance last season where they finished fifth, narrowly missing out on a spot in the PSL promotion/relegation play-offs by just three points.

Mangoya, who steered the team through its maiden season in South Africa’s second-tier football division, has since taken up a new role with Upington City in the Northern Cape.

Confirming Vilakazi’s arrival, a Kruger United official stated, “Vilakazi is our coach. He has already started working in preparation for the new season.” The former Golden Arrows striker, affectionately known as ‘Kanu’, is making a return to professional football management after taking time off to focus on rehabilitation following gambling-related issues earlier this year.

Vusumuzi Vilakazi’s appointment signals a fresh start for the club, as they aim to push even harder for promotion next season. With his background as a player and coach in top-flight football, Kruger United will be hoping his experience can help them take the next step in their journey.

Meanwhile, outgoing coach Mangoya has shared his perspective on the split, citing differences in direction and vision. “The club has taken another direction and seemingly we were no longer sharing the same vision,” he said.

As the new season draws closer, all eyes will be on Vusumuzi Vilakazi and how he reshapes the squad to mount a serious challenge for promotion to the DStv Premiership.