Pitso Mosimane Walks Away From Esteghlal FC Amid Salary Issues
- South African soccer legend Pitso Mosimane has parted ways with Iranian club Esteghlal FC due to nine months of unpaid salary.
- Reports suggest Mosimane gave the club a deadline to settle the payment by January 28, 2025, which they failed to meet.
- Local fans took to social media, urging Mosimane to return to South Africa while questioning his repeated battles over unpaid wages.
Listen up, soccer fans. The iconic former Mamelodi Sundowns coach, Pitso Mosimane, has officially parted ways with Iranian powerhouse Esteghlal FC. And why? Because the club reportedly hasn’t paid him for a staggering nine months. It’s a move that’s got everyone talking, and it’s not the first time Mosimane has had to deal with this kind of headache.
Mosimane didn’t just sit back and wait for the money to magically appear. No, he gave the club an ultimatum: pay up by January 28, 2025, or else. And guess what? The club didn’t meet the deadline, leaving Mosimane with no choice but to walk away. This isn’t just about money—it’s about respect, and clearly, Mosimane felt he wasn’t getting it.
The issue over unpaid salaries first bubbled up during the festive season, when Mosimane reportedly claimed the club hadn’t paid him for months. He wasn’t shy about threatening legal action, but it seems that didn’t get the job done. This isn’t the first time Mosimane has been in this situation, and frankly, it’s starting to raise some eyebrows.
Read also:Why This Teachers Tiktok Lesson Is Winning Hearts
Mosimane Bids Farewell to Esteghlal FC
It’s official—Mosimane is out of the Iranian Pro League. A tweet confirmed the news, and according to KickOff, his agent and wife, Moira Tlhagale, confirmed the departure with immediate effect. This isn’t just a split; it’s a statement.
Moira Tlhagale had this to say:
“The deadline has not been met, and the coach has now decided to terminate his contract with the club.”
This isn’t Mosimane’s first rodeo with unpaid salaries. Back when he was coaching Al-Ahli Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, he won a multi-million rand court case over a similar issue. It seems like a pattern, and it’s one that’s leaving people scratching their heads.
Before the split, Mosimane issued an ultimatum to Esteghlal, as seen in a tweet. The writing was on the wall, and unfortunately, the club didn’t step up to the plate.
Mixed Results Under Mosimane’s Leadership
Since taking the reins at Esteghlal, Mosimane’s tenure has been a mixed bag. The team has struggled with a string of draws, leaving them in 11th place on the log, just four points above the relegation zone. It’s been a tough ride, and Mosimane hasn’t been able to bring in reinforcements like Bafana Bafana star Percy Tau, who recently joined Qatar SC.
With his departure from Esteghlal, speculation is swirling about Mosimane’s next move. Could he return to South Africa? Rumors suggest he’s been linked with several PSL clubs before heading to Iran. Fans are eager to see where this legendary coach lands next.
Read also:Gospel Singer Winnie Mashaba Faces Backlash Over Private Jet Pics
Fans React on Social Media
Social media exploded with reactions from local football fans. Some fans are urging Mosimane to come back to South Africa, while others are questioning why he keeps finding himself in these sticky salary situations. Let’s dive into what fans are saying.
Qunta Dinwa had an idea:
“He must come back and be Sir Cardoso’s assistant.”
Kemisetso Boikanyo Oratile Ledwaba shared a wish:
“I wish everything could be ironed out between him and Sundowns so he can go back to Chloorkop. Just a wish.”
Phineas Masipa raised some tough questions:
“How did he tolerate it till it reached nine months? Even a car installment once you skip payment for the first and second month is enough to terminate a mutual agreement contract. Pitso is a scam and soon FIFA won’t entertain his cases anymore because every team he coaches is treated as a volunteer. He works for food.”
Tshepo Ramokoatsi had advice for Mosimane:
“His next move should be football motivated, this thing of him going to obscure leagues chasing money then not getting the said money doesn’t work.”
Sinovuyo Kili expressed doubts:
“Only if he can bring Jomo Cosmos back to the top-flight league that’s when I will believe that he’s the best coach; until then I’m sorry.”
Egyptian Striker Fires Back at Mosimane
Adding fuel to the fire, Egyptian international striker Mahmoud Kahraba criticized Mosimane for not giving him enough playing time. Kahraba played under Mosimane at Al-Ahly, where he consistently scored goals but struggled to secure a starting spot. It’s a reminder that even the best coaches can have their detractors.
Kahraba’s comments highlight the complexities of managing a team with diverse talents. While Mosimane is undoubtedly one of Africa’s most successful coaches, his decisions on the field don’t always sit well with everyone. As he moves forward, fans will be watching closely to see how he handles his next chapter.
