A new era is expected for AmaZulu following the unveiling of Spanish coach Pablo Franco Martin who is taking over after a disappointing season.
AmaZulu president Sandile Zungu confirmed on Tuesday that Martin has been roped in on a three-year contract, following a two-week long process of interviews with the different candidates.
The Spaniard takes over from former striker Ayanda Dlamini, who has been in charge temporarily since the removal of French-Moroccan Romain Folz from the position of head coach in April.
The 43-year-old becomes the second Spanish coach in the DStv Premiership after Orlando Pirates' cup double-winning tactician, Jose Riveiro, who arrived around the same time last year.
"We are absolutely delighted at the quality of parties that we interviewed, who shared with us their ideas about Usuthu. Usuthu is loved and seen as a very attractive prospect. We emerged with one name. A name that the players will be very happy with, the supporters, sponsors, and the directors of AmaZulu Football Club. We believe that the local league will be richer with a person of this gentleman's calibre coming to the DSTV Premiership," said Zungu, in part, in confirming Martin's appointment in a club statement.
In welcoming the new coach, prominent AmaZulu supporter Sgcino Mfundisi Thusi spoke to the Siya crew about the fans' expectations.
The Good
"We are delighted about the appointment of "Cijimpi (Martin's nickname given to him by Zungu)" and we are looking forward to the good times ahead. This is an experienced coach and not just someone coming here to learn at the expense of AmaZulu. He knows how to win and he is in the same level as our previous coach Benni McCarthy in our eyes. We are happy and we welcome our new coach to the club. We are not complaining and hopefully the management will be patient with the man," said Thusi.
The Bad
"One thing I know about football is that you can chop and change every now and then from the coaches to players, and if things don't work out the way you expect them to, you need to look at yourselves as well as the management. I am happy that Zungu has brought in a new coach and made several changes to the playing personnel and now it is up to everybody to show what they are capable of. If things continue the way they were this past season, maybe the club will have to consider making changes in the management as well. For now, we are happy and supporting the club with everything," he said.
The Ugly
On Lehlohonolo Majoro exit
"To tell you the truth, I am not happy about the departure of Majoro. I don't think he got enough chance to prove his worth in the team. I wouldn't know if there were any other issues with him outside of the field and I am talking about what I saw him doing inside the four lines. I would have expected him to continue at the club and I am just not happy that he left. He is someone who performed well every time he got a chance to play and his experience was vital to the team," he concluded.
