BLOEMFONTEIN – The Marumo Gallants have appointed homegrown coach Phuthi Mohafe as part of their long-term goal to become a dominant force in South Africa’s top-flight football. The club announced the significant appointment on Sunday 21 June, after agreeing terms ahead of the 2026-’27 Premier Soccer League (PSL) season.

Sello Nduna, club spokesperson, confirmed that the Gallants appointed Mohafe as head coach on a two-year deal, with an option to extend for a further year. The local tactician joins from the Limpopo-based Polokwane City FC, where he enjoyed a stellar tenure. Mohafe made his mark by guiding City, nicknamed Rise and Shine, into the top eight for three consecutive seasons. In the just-concluded 2025-’26 Premiership season, City finished seventh, while the Gallants narrowly escaped relegation.

Nduna said Mohafe was officially introduced to the players on Monday, adding that he stood out as the ideal candidate from six applicants – four local and two international coaches. Nduna cited Mohafe’s significant role in transforming City into a competitive and consistent force in the PSL during his spell at the club, as well as his deep knowledge of the local game.

The Gallants stated that Mohafe’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter in the club’s bid to cement its status as a powerhouse in South African elite football, strengthening its ambitions both on and off the pitch. The Bahlabane ba Ntwa highlighted that Mohafe’s wealth of coaching experience, strong leadership qualities and in-depth understanding of the local football landscape made him the standout candidate for the role.

Born and bred in Limpopo, Mohafe took over at City following the departure of Lehlohonolo Seema at the end of 2023. He displayed his coaching ability in the elite division, having previously coached the now-defunct Witbank Spurs – a club where he also featured as a centre-back before hanging up his boots. Mohafe, who holds a CAF B Licence replaces Moroccan tactician Jamil Benouahi, whose stint was from March to May. He was roped in as last-ditch effort to replace Frenchman Alexander Lafitte, who was sacked following the Gallants’ dismal league run – despite the club reaching the Carling Knockout Cup final, where they finished as runners-up.