Chippa appoint ex-Chiefs scout Sinesipho Mali as sporting director

Sinesipho Mali. Photo credit: Chippa United

Chippa United have announced the appointment of as the club's new sporting director, marking a significant homecoming for the seasoned football professional.

Mali, who previously served as a performance analyst for the Eastern Cape outfit, returns after six years of building an impressive resume across South African football.

Mali's journey since his initial stint with the Chilli Boys includes key technical roles at big clubs. He notably spent time as a scout for Kaizer Chiefs. Most recently, he served as the head of analysis and scouting at Betway Premiership side Sekhukhune United.

Beyond his club contributions, Mali has also made a substantial impact on the national stage. He was a vital part of the Bafana Bafana technical team that clinched the bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.

Furthermore, his expertise extends to women's football, having contributed to the Banyana Banyana technical team at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. Chippa confirmed that Mali will continue his role as head of analyst for Bafana Bafana, balancing national team duties with his new club responsibilities.

Chippa United, in a statement released on Thursday, expressed confidence in Mali's ability to "meet the moment," highlighting that his return is "a clear signal that Chippa United FC is ready to evolve, mature, and lead from the front." The club emphasized that Mali brings a unique blend of "academic rigor and practical experience" to the Sporting Director role, which they view as a "critical part of our long-term strategy."

Mali's mandate at Chippa United extends beyond on-field performance. The club underlined a strong focus on community engagement, with Mali tasked to "strengthen the club's presence within local communities."

This will involve leading initiatives such as grassroots tournaments, youth development programmes, and various supporter outreach efforts to "reconnect Chippa United with the people it represents."

The club reiterated its belief that "football is not just a competition — it is a symbol of social upliftment, cultural pride, and Eastern Cape identity. We are Eastern Cape, and the Eastern Cape is us."