Gaborone United players pay tribute to Simba SC’s new coach Pantev

Gaborone United players Mpho Kgaswane and Frank Seleke have paid tributes to their former coach Dimitar Pantev.

The Bulgarian has left the Botswana league champions to pick a new job at Simba SC. The FBN Premiership-winning tactician has signed a two-year contract with the East African club football powerhouse.

Pantev’s departure from Gaborone to the Tanzanian Premier League top side came as a shock for many in Botswana considering his impact in the country.

Little wonder Seleke took to his Facebook page to pour his heart on what he feels about the European coach.

The Gaborone star credited his career progress to Pantev tactical know-how and sound player management.

What Gaborone United stars wrote about Pantev’s exit

“Thank you coach for believing in me and pushing me to be better than I thought I could be. Your dedication to the team taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. I am so grateful for your guidance this season. You not only made us better players but also taught us valuable life lessons that I will carry with me to be resilient and brave,” Sekele wrote.

Attacking midfielder Kgaswane also gave Pantev his fair share of credit citing his impact on his career on and off the field of play.

“Thank you coach Dimitar Pantev for your impact on me. Your leadership, discipline and winning mentality have left a strong mark on us. Personally, I have learned so much under your guidance and I will always value the trust you had in me.

“Dimi, your contribution to helping us secure the historic 8th league title will forever remain in the memory of this great club. You have not only been a coach but also a mentor and motivator who pushed us to give our very best.”

The Botswana FNB Premiership champions released a statement on Friday confirming Pantev’s resignation. A few hours later, Simba confirmed the coach’s arrival.

How the Bulgarian coach left Botswana’s champions for Tanzania

“Coach Pantev has informed the club of his intention to pursue a new opportunity in his coaching career, and after discussions with management, Gaborone United has respectfully granted his request. This morning, the coach bid farewell to the players and staff at the club’s training ground,” the statement reads.

Simba SC settled for Pantev’s services after their efforts to hire Miguel Gamondi from Singida Black Stars hit a snag.

The Bulgarian led the Botswana giants in the first preliminary round of the Champions League where they lost 2-1 on aggregate to exit the competition. The first leg in Gaborone ended 1-0 in favour of Simba before the return leg in Tanzania ended in a 1-1 draw.

Simba have been drawn to face Nsingizini of Eswatini in a two-legged second preliminary round fixture. Simba will play the first leg away on October 17 before hosting the return leg on October 24. The overall winner will progress to the group stages of the lucrative competition.