Coach Pitso Mosimane has confirmed his sudden departure from Mamelodi Sundowns.
In a statement released on his social media account, Pitso confirmed that he is leaving Sundowns to join an “international team”, widely speculated to be African champions league record holder, Al Ahly of Egypt.
“It is with a sense of pain and sadness that I announce my departure from Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club. I have accepted an offer to join an international team,” read part of his twitter statement.
“Mamelodi Sundowns has been my family for almost eight years. The President Dr Patrice Motsepe has been like a father to me. He has been a mentor, a friend, a supporter and a confidante.
“I could never quit him or Mamelodi Sundowns. I am only going away to carry the spirit of the Yellow Nation with me.”
“From the deepest of my heart, I am so grateful that the President has blessed my move. I did not expect less from a man who has been so good and generous to me. He is the kind of leader any family, company, team and indeed any country needs. I have been privileged to drink from his well of wisdom.”
“I leave this family knowing that our bond is unbreakable and hoping that with the passage of time, our paths would come together again. This is not a divorce. We shall remain bonded forever.
“After winning five league titles with Mamelodi Sundowns – the 10th for the club – how can a man ever find it easy to say goodbye to his home? How can I say goodbye to the family, the board, the supporters and the fans?
“My success is his success. Without him, I would not have achieved half of what I have. I leave this family knowing that our bond is unbreakable and hoping that with the passage of time, our paths would come together again. This is not a divorce. We shall remain bonded forever.”
Pitso admits that it’s time to move out of the comfort zone.
“I am taking up this new challenge that will push me out of my comfort zone. I know Mamelodi Sundowns will use this as a new and fresh perspective.”
Although “Jingles” had four years remaining on his recent signed contract, he feels there was no way he was going to let this huge opportunity pass him by.
“While I had four years remaining in my contract, this offer is a huge opportunity for me that would not have come had I not had the privilege to be part of the team that led Mamelodi Sundowns in winning the CAF Champions League and reaching the Club World Cup finals.”
Sundowns have since issued a statement of their own with President, Dr Patrice Motsepe giving Pitso his blessings.
“I have on several occasions over the past few years expressed my support for Pitso Mosimane leaving Sundowns to coach in North Africa or Europe or Bafana Bafana. Football players and coaches have at times an uncertain and inconsistent future and must pursue new opportunities where they may grow and receive greater remuneration. Motsepe said.
“I have received a warm and emotional note from Pitso and am very proud of his achievements at Mamelodi Sundowns. Pitso has been the most successful coach in the history of Sundowns and will always be a member of the Mamelodi Sundowns Family. I wish him, Moira and his family everything of the very best and I hope to see him coaching in Europe soon.”
Written by: Diski Voice
