AmaZulu coach Pablo Franco Martin is set to wield an axe after his team’s underwhelming performance at the end of this season.

Following a defeat to second-last placed Richards Bay on Tuesday, Martin hinted at a significant squad shakeup at season’s end.

This loss comes on the heels of a morale-boosting victory over Chippa United, highlighting AmaZulu’s inconsistency. Since boss Sandile Zungu took charge in 2020, the club, known for its big spending in the transfer market, has struggled to string together victories.

They’ve only managed one away league win outside KwaZulu-Natal this season, against Cape Town City and have not won two league matches of the bounce either.

“If we want to consistently challenge for the top four or eight, we likely need to change some players at the end of the season,” said a stern-faced Martin.

AmaZulu currently sit precariously in 12th place with 31 points after 26 games, jeopardizing even a top-eight finish. Their struggles extend beyond the final third despite boasting attacking talent like Augustine Kwem, Junior Dion, Victor Letsoalo, and Augustine Mulenga (who even scored against Richards Bay).

When asked about solutions, Martin acknowledged the challenge: “It’s difficult. We train hard and prepare for each game as best we can. But motivation ultimately comes from within each player. It’s not just about motivation, there could be many factors. Perhaps fatigue after ten months of competition…

“We’re not at our best. We can discuss futures and contracts at the end of the season. We have ambitions, and this season’s performance isn’t acceptable.”

AmaZulu face an additional concern with Riaan Hanamub’s contract appearing to be expiring at the end of the season. Losing such a key player and international to that matter after two stellar seasons would be a significant blow.