Vilakazi: I’m Head Coach Of Bay

Richards Bay FC coach Vusi “Kanu” Vilakazi has asserted his position at the club despite recent comments from new sponsors Phakwe Gas hinting at a potential coaching change before the 2024/25 PSL season.
Vilakazi, a recent CAF B coaching license graduate, earned praise for his heroic efforts in saving Richards Bay from relegation through the playoffs. However, his future became uncertain following the announcement of a significant R100 million sponsorship deal with Phakwe Gas last week. CEO Thabiso Tenyane suggested the sponsor’s involvement might extend to influencing coaching decisions.
“I’m the head coach at Richards Bay. I have a contract, so I don’t understand the question,” Vilakazi stated firmly, responding to speculation fueled by Tenyane’s remarks about a “coaching surprise.”
The former Golden Arrows coach missed the sponsorship launch due to coaching classes. He made it clear his loyalty lies with club chairman Sifiso Biyela, not the sponsors.
“They’re sponsors,” Vilakazi explained. “I don’t deal with them. I have a contract with the chairman who hired me, not the sponsors.”
Vilakazi’s resolve is especially noteworthy given his crucial role in Richards Bay’s PSL survival. Despite acknowledging the future’s uncertainty, he remains focused on his development and contribution to the team.
“The future is uncertain,” he admitted. “But I’m an ambitious coach who always gives my best. Given the opportunity to coach in the PSL, I’m trying my level best. Even with the responsibility of saving the team, a situation I’d never faced before, I managed to do it as a young coach with limited experience. I’ll build on that success.”