Abram Sello: Marumo Gallants are lucky to have captured Lafitte Alexandre

The 28-year-old became the youngest ever coach of a professional top-flight team when he was appointed by Stade d'Abidjan as a 25-year-old in 2023.

He joins Gallants as a replacement for Abdeslam Ouaddou, who left to take the reins of Orlando Pirates.

This is the second time Sello has opted for a young, relatively unknown coach after previously appointing a 31-year-old Romain Folz, who only spent a brief time with the club before spells with Horoya, AmaZulu and Mamelodi Sundowns.

Reflecting on his latest appointment, the Gallants chairman explained that both parties have the same "hunger for success".

Alexandre joins Gallants having just led Stade Abidjan to their first Ivorian title in 56 years.

Sello said on IOL: "I think as our payline, Bahlabane Ba Ntwa, when we look for someone, we really mean business.

"We happen to be lucky by speaking to the right people — we study first, check the profiles, and consult. With that help, it makes us feel great about the candidate.

"We had previous coaches where the media said, 'look how young he is'. But they ended up at Mamelodi Sundowns, FIFA, AmaZulu or Horoya. That kind of development makes us proud, especially if you look at where Romain Folz and Abdes (Ouaddou) are right now.

"We just wish them luck when they go elsewhere. We don't block anyone's way up the ladder, coach or player, because they were with us."

Sello added: "We interviewed a number of coaches and chose the one aligned with our club's growth and his hunger for success. We will give him the platform to develop himself and the club. It's not about nationality — the profile and intention are key.

"In the league, we're aiming for a better position — closer to the title, as a dream. If things go well for him, we could get there. But let's start simple — get a Top 8 finish."