Zwane Refuses To Comment On Dladla Reported Rift

AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane has declined to elaborate on assistant coach Simo Dladla’s notable absence from the bench during Usuthu’s 2-2 draw with Sekhukhune United on Monday, saying the club is bigger than any individual and that everyone will eventually move on.

AmaZulu confirmed nearly two weeks ago that Dladla, who joined the club during the off-season as an assistant coach, will leave at the end of the campaign when his contract expires.

However, Sportswire understands that Dladla’s departure is linked to internal tensions, with claims that he was undermining Zwane while allegedly harbouring ambitions of becoming head coach.

It is further understood that matters escalated during a team meeting, creating a tense environment within the club.

Sources also indicated that Zwane reported the situation to club president Sandile Zungu, expressing concerns that Dladla was interfering with his work.

Despite the team’s positive performances, the club decided they will part ways with Dladla at the end of the season.

Dladla was notably absent from the bench as Usuthu were held to a 2-2 draw at Princess Magogo Stadium on Monday.

When asked about Dladla’s absence, Zwane declined to go into detail, pointing to the club’s official statement and emphasising that no individual is bigger than the team.

“This club is bigger than any one of us, including me,” said Zwane.

“This team can play tomorrow without me. The club can go on without Posnet [Posnet Omony, AmaZulu goalkeeper coach]. None of us is indispensable.

“It’s about love, passion and commitment to the club — that is what matters most. The club comes first in everything we do.

“I was sick the other day [when AmaZulu defeated Richards Bay FC in March], and to be honest, I was more relaxed. Being a coach is just a job title. But when things don’t go our way, the buck stops with me. My head is on the chopping block, and I have to make decisions, with the support of others — that is very key.

“What I’m saying is that the club can survive without us, and the sooner we realise that, the better.”

Pressed further on whether Dladla’s absence was linked to his impending departure or reported differences between the two, Zwane declined to comment.

“The club released a statement, and I’m not going to comment any further,” he said.

Zwane also reserved praise for assistant coach Siboniso Vilakazi.

“People like Nini [Vilakazi] deserve a lot of credit; they are doing a great job. I’m happy for him,” Zwane added.

“He has just obtained his CAF A Licence, and the club has done well to develop him. That’s why I’m saying, in terms of experience, I have enough on the bench.”