Exclusive: Inside AmaZulu Coaching Rift —Dladla And Dias Were Bad Apples

Sportswire can exclusively reveal that AmaZulu’s decision to part ways with Simo Dladla stems from a deteriorating relationship with head coach Arthur Zwane, which management feared would derail the team’s impressive campaign.

Internal Friction at Usuthu

According to club insiders, Dladla’s ambition to take a more central “main man” role led to a breakdown in communication and trust between the two coaches.

With Usuthu currently flying high in third place in the Betway Premiership, the board moved swiftly to protect the team’s upward trajectory under Zwane.

While the club was initially keen on an immediate termination, subsequent meetings resulted in an agreement for Dladla to see out the remainder of the season before stepping away, which was confirmed on Friday.

“The relationship between Zwane and Dladla was worsening by the day,” a source told Sportswire.

“There were allegations of Dladla undermining Zwane behind his back in a bid to elevate his own position. It simply became untenable.”

Dladla joined the Durban-based outfit as a second assistant during the off-season. His arrival followed a successful stint at Durban City, where he guided the team to PSL promotion before a contract dispute led to his departure.

Director of Football Role Abolished

The coaching shake-up isn’t the only major change at the club. Director of Football Pedro Dias will also vacate his post when his contract expires at the end of the season.

Allegations of Misconduct

Dias, who was appointed in 2023, has faced serious allegations regarding “kickbacks” from certain player agents—claims that Sportswire has been actively investigating. While the findings were slated for presentation to the AmaZulu board, the investigation has been closed following the news of his impending departure.

Throughout his three-year tenure, Dias has faced heavy criticism for his lack of transparency, having never held a media briefing to outline his long-term strategy.

Within the club, some have even labeled him a “salary thief.” Further tension has emerged recently, with allegations that Dias was refusing to facilitate a smooth handover of duties to Ayanda Mkhize, who recently returned to the fold as a scout, including the uniform.

A New Strategic Direction

AmaZulu confirmed on Friday that they will not only replace Dias but will scrap the position entirely to streamline operations.

“It has been resolved to discontinue the Director of Football role in favor of a more integrated football management structure,” the club stated.