Magesi axe ex-Sundowns striker, 9 others

CAPTION: Photo Credit: Magesi FC

Hours after announcing the exit of coach Owen Da Gama, South Africa's Magesi FC have sacked former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Gift Motupa and nine other players.

The Betway Premiership side released a statement on Sunday announcing the departure of the 33-year-old forward and the other players, most notably Rhulani Manzini.

The other casualties in the clearout are Neverdie Makhubela, Deolin Mekoa, Amos Mokwena, Boikanyo Komane, Maboke Matlakala, Anathi Ngwadla, Given Mashikinya and Menzi Ndwandwe.

"Magesi Football Club confirms the departure of the following players ahead of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season," the statement reads.

"Dikwena Tša Meetse would like to thank them for their contribution to the club and wishes them all the best in their respective endeavours."

Magesi have since hinted at "further structural changes in preparation for the upcoming season."

The release of the players suggests that Da Gama might not have walked out on Dikwena Tša Meetse, but he was axed despite pulling the club from the jaws of relegation last season.

He joined the club on 30 December 2024 and presided over 19 league matches, winning seven, drawing five and losing seven. Under his watch, Magesi survived relegation after finishing in 13th place.

Da Gama won the Betway Premiership Coach of the Month for March. He scooped the accolade for steering Magesi away from the relegation zone following four wins in five games in all competitions after having taken over the reins from Clinton Larsen, who quit the rookies.

Magesi had an up-and-down season as they started with a bang, winning the Carling KnockOut Cup after stunning Mamelodi Sundowns late last year, only for the wheels to come off. However, league form dipped, and Larsen jumped ship.