Former Pirates coach issues come-get-me plea to Chiefs

Former Orlando Pirates coach Owen Da Gama has dropped a major hint regarding his future, naming Kaizer Chiefs as the ultimate “bucket list” destination in his illustrious coaching career.

The 64-year-old, who has sat in the dugout for some of South Africa’s most historic clubs, is currently a free agent after parting ways with Botswana Premier League outfit Black Lions. Despite his extensive travels across the continent, Da Gama admits that leading the Glamour Boys remains a dream he hopes to fulfill before hanging up his whistle.

“Just for a Season”: Da Gama’s Chiefs Ambition

Speaking on SABC Radio Phalaphala FM, the former Magesi FC mentor was candid about his desire to test himself at Naturena.

“I am saying Kaizer Chiefs. Chiefs is the club I want. If I can get Chiefs just for a season only… It’s on my bucket list if the opportunity arises. I don’t want to overhype myself, but it’s on my bucket list.”

While Da Gama noted he is open to other opportunities, his focus on the Soweto giants highlights his hunger to return to the pinnacle of South African football.

Da Gama’s resume reads like a roadmap of South African football. His journey has taken him through various levels of the game, including:

Soweto Experience: A stint leading Orlando Pirates during the 2007/08 season. His recent roles includes coaching at Magesi FC in the Betway Premiership and a brief spell with ABC Motsepe League side Vondwe XI Bullets. He also had stints at TS Galaxy, Highlands Park FC, Sekhukhune United, Bloemfontein Celtic, Free State Stars, Dynamos FC, and Silver Stars FC in the Premiership.

Gratitude for the “Iron Duke”

Reflecting on his time at the Buccaneers, Da Gama credited Pirates chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza for his career trajectory.

“I learned a lot from Dr. Irvin Khoza, and I am still grateful that I was given the opportunity to work at Orlando Pirates,” he said. “That opportunity put me on the map, let’s be honest.”

With the Betway Premiership becoming increasingly competitive, Da Gama’s public declaration adds an intriguing subplot to the coaching merry-go-round. Whether Amakhosi will look toward the veteran’s experience remains to be seen.