Norman Mapeza’s Scottland FC Future In Doubt As Club Reportedly Search For New Coach in Europe
Scottland FC are reportedly preparing for life after Norman Mapeza despite sitting at the top of the Premier Soccer League table.
Club officials are said to have started exploring coaching alternatives as concerns grow over the team’s performances.
According to ZimLive, sources indicate that a decision has already been reached behind the scenes to replace Mapeza.
The coach has reportedly faced criticism over his relationship with some players, with allegations that he has become unpopular within the dressing room.
“In the background, a decision has been made to replace Mapeza. He is seen as arrogant and players complain that he is vindictive. A change will be made soon,” a club source said.
Scottland chairman Everson Chatambudza, however, dismissed the reports and maintained that the club remains firmly behind its coach.
“Those are blue lies. I don’t know where they are emanating from. Norman Mapeza is our coach and come end of season he will still be our coach,” he said.
Also Read: Wicknell Chivayo Unveils Norman Mapeza as Scottland New Head Coach
League Lead Fails To Ease Concerns
Scottland are three points clear of Hardrock at the top of the PSL standings.
The defending champions have collected 16 victories from 27 matches.
They have drawn nine games and suffered only two defeats.
However, the high number of stalemates has reportedly frustrated club owner Scott Sakupwanya.
The dropped points have allowed Hardrock to remain within touching distance despite Scottland’s strong overall record.
Sources say Sakupwanya expected his expensively assembled squad to produce more dominant performances.
“Sakupwanya wants the club to be playing free-flowing football. He believes the investment made in players should make them untouchable domestically, but the title race is too close for comfort,” the source said.
Club Looks Beyond Zimbabwe
The search for a potential successor has reportedly already extended beyond Zimbabwe.
Scottland are said to have sounded out several coaches, including candidates based in Europe.
The reported move comes less than a year after Mapeza took charge.
He was appointed in November last year following his departure from FC Platinum.
Mapeza is understood to have signed a three-year contract with Scottland.
However, his deal may not prevent the club from making a change if its leadership decides to part ways with him.
With the club’s owners possessing significant financial resources, compensation is unlikely to be viewed as a major stumbling block.
Sponsor Admits Performances Have Fallen Short
Scottland’s financial backing has raised expectations around the club.
Sakupwanya, one of Zimbabwe’s leading gold traders, has invested millions into the team.
The club also has the backing of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, whose company IMC Communications is reported to be its principal sponsor.
IMC Communications chief executive Denny Marandure said the sponsor does not interfere in football decisions made by the club’s executive.
However, he acknowledged that Mapeza’s results and performances have not met expectations.
“We remain the sponsors of the brand and usually we don’t comment, but we must say that his (Mapeza’s) performance has not been great and pleasing, even for us. We must add, his performance has been far below what we expected, and that’s not the Norman we know.”
Marandure also raised concerns over the coach’s tactical decisions and his handling of the squad.
“We’re also puzzled by the rumours about grudges with players and the constant substitutions of strong players. We don’t understand where this strategy is coming from.”
Despite the concerns, the IMC Communications boss stopped short of calling for Mapeza’s removal.
“But as we all know the football game, we remain optimistic that Scottland will take the cup again this year.”
For now, Mapeza remains in charge, with Scottland still leading the championship race.
But with the CAF Champions League approaching and Hardrock closing in, pressure on the defending champions’ coach appears to be mounting.
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