Zimbabwe assistant coach Chiragwi resigns after slapping his player

Zimbabwe football team assistant coach Takesure Chiragwi has stepped down from his position after courting controversy at his club.

His resignation comes days before the Warriors play FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Lesotho. The member of Michael Nees’ backroom staff for the Warriors slapped a player for his club Ngezi Platinum FC on Saturday.

The coach lost his cool during a game against Dynamos FC at Rufaro Stadium in Harare. The match ended 1-1.

Chiragwi was caught on camera slapping his own player substitute Mcdonald Makuwe in the technical area. The player had tried to restrain Chiragwi from confronting the referee over his decision in the build up to Dynamos’ goal.

The referee had first shown a red card to Platinum substitute Kudzai Chigwida before Chiragwi reacted angrily. He too was sent off.

What did Chiragwi say in his statement of apology?

Reflecting on the incident, the Platinum gaffer has since apologised for the incident, which marred the Zimbabwe Castle Lager Premier League (PSL) match.

“My actions on the touchline, which were broadcast live, were wholly inappropriate and unbecoming of a coach, leader, and representative of our game. First and foremost, I extend my deepest apologies to McDonald Makuwe, the player involved.

“I am deeply sorry for my behaviour towards you. Regardless of the circumstances or emotions of the moment, there is no justification for my actions, and I take full responsibility for the hurt and embarrassment they may have caused you.

“I have since had the opportunity to speak with you directly, and apologise in person, and I sincerely thank you for your understanding and graciousness in accepting that apology,” he said in a statement.

Chiragwi also announced that he had resigned from his national team position over his conduct.

“In the spirit of transparency and respect for due process, I have stepped aside from my national team duties for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers to allow all disciplinary procedures to take place without prejudice,” he added.

“I will cooperate fully with the investigations by the PSL and any other relevant authorities and accept whatever outcome or sanction is deemed appropriate.”

The Zimbabwe PSL has since vowed to investigate the incident upon receiving a report from Platinum and the officiating panel.

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