Magesi FC axe Maduka and turn to veteran Allan Freese

Magesi FC have delivered a definitive verdict on their coaching situation, officially parting ways with John Maduka and appointing veteran tactician Allan Freese as his successor.

The decision comes as a swift development following earlier thoughts shared by the club’s communications team, which suggested the board was still in the assessment phase. However, the basement-dwellers have opted for decisive action, explaining that the need for a fresh perspective was paramount as the club fights to retain its Betway Premiership status.

The official verdict by Magesi FC

In a statement released on Wednesday, the club confirmed that Maduka’s tenure had come to an end by mutual consent.

“This is to inform the public that Magesi Football Club has on this day terminated the coaching contract of John Maduka with immediate effect,” the statement read. “The club has also concluded contractual engagements with Coach Alan Freese, who will resume responsibilities with immediate effect.

The board’s thoughts behind the move are clearly tied to the club’s precarious position at the foot of the table. Magesi currently sits in 16th place with 11 points, and Freese—a man known for his tactical discipline—has been brought in to maximise the two games in hand the club holds over their nearest rivals, Orbit College FC.

In Freese, Magesi has secured more than just a manager; they have hired a specialist in high-stakes survival. His task is to replicate the tactical rescue act Owen da Gama performed last season when Magesi narrowly escaped the drop in their top-flight debut. Freese’s pedigree is undeniable, highlighted by trophy wins in 2013, when he led the now-defunct Platinum Stars to both MTN8 and Telkom Knockout glory.

More recently, Freese’s coaching journey took a continental turn in North Africa. He spent nearly a season in Casablanca serving as a technical coach under Rulani Mokwena at Wydad AC.

He has very little time to implement his vision at the Limpopo, as he leads the team into a crucial encounter against Golden Arrows this Friday in the Betway Premiership.