Coach Dan Malesela is set to rejoin Baroka FC after successful reconciliation talks between the two parties, Sportswire has learned.

Malesela, recently dismissed by Marumo Gallants following their loss to Mamelodi Sundowns last month, is currently without a club.

His return comes as Baroka’s promotion hopes dwindle with each passing game. Malesela was previously dismissed by Baroka after their initial loss to the University of Pretoria in the PSL relegation and Promotion Playoff last season. Following the defeat, the club suspended him, with chairman Khurishi Mphahlele citing conduct issues and confirming an internal investigation.

Subsequently, Baroka appointed Morgan Mammila, believing they could still secure promotion. However, Richards Bay ultimately retained their PSL status, culminating in Baroka’s heavy defeat in the final playoff match at King Zwelithini Stadium in Durban. Notably, it was Malesela, appointed in October 2024 for the remainder of the season, who had guided Baroka to a third-place finish in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, securing their playoff berth.

Baroka, the first Limpopo team to win a major trophy—the 2018/19 Telkom Knockout trophy against Orlando Pirates—were relegated at the end of the 2021/22 campaign, becoming the second team to be relegated without an away win in the PSL.

Currently eighth in the table with 29 points from 22 matches, Baroka trails the third-place playoff spot by seven points.

Malesela will be Baroka’s fourth coach this season. Mammila was dismissed after a poor start, followed by Joel Masutha.

Amukelani Hlungwane, who took over on an interim basis, has struggled to deliver results, losing the last two matches and prompting the club to make another technical team change.