Phuti Mohafe explains motivation behind Marumo Gallants switch

The former City Kings head coach and Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila assistant surprisingly left Rise and Shine after four seasons at the end of the 2025/26 campaign.

He takes over following the deparure of Jamil Benouahi and having led Polokwane to a top eight finish last season.

Mohafe said in the Sowetan: "I think it's comfortable. When you become comfortable in a zone then you lose character. And what inspired me to come to Marumo is just the growth, to see how far I can take the team.

"To see my level of growth, coming to Marumo to improve them. To empower them from the position that they were the previous season [14th].

"Also bearing in mind that Marumo is a team that has been doing well in cup matches. So it is another thing that inspired me to come. Marumo is a team that has played in the CAF Confederation Cup, so I want to see myself there."

Gallants announced 13 new signings ahead of the season, including Emile Lako, Thokozani Lukhele, Prince Manku, Mlungisi Sikakane, Patrick Motsoeneng, Kgomotso Marebane, Thato Mohlomme, Samkele Sihlali, Thabang Sesinyi, Thabiso Mkhwanazi, Onalenna Lepelesane, Lebogang Button and Thulani Zandamela.

"They are a team that has been going into cup finals. I want to see myself there. That's what inspired the team, the character of them playing in cup matches," added Mohafe.