Reigning Vodacom Premier League (VPL) champions, Lioli Football Club, have begun a squad profiling process described as aligning the team with the philosophy of newly appointed head coach, Bongani Maseko.
The move comes in the wake of the 2024/25 season’s conclusion and the departure of former coach Motheo Mohapi, who had led the club to consecutive league titles.
Maseko’s arrival has marked the beginning of what the club describes as a period of “self-introspection” as it prepares for the next phase.
Maseko steps into a role that has not been without controversy. Following Mohapi’s exit, rumours emerged suggesting player discontent within the squad, sparking concerns over team stability.
Interest from rival clubs in some of Lioli’s key players has further fueled speculation, with forward Teboho Masuoane reportedly among those being targeted.
However, Lioli’s President Lebohang Thotanyane has dismissed fears of a mass player exodus. He stated that the club is working hard to retain its top talent during the current transfer window and emphasised the importance of maintaining continuity within the squad.
In an exclusive interview with Newsday Sports, Thotanyane revealed that coach Maseko, with the full backing of club management, is evaluating every player in the team, assessing their physical and mental readiness as part of the squad’s restructuring.
“The new head coach needs to understand and align with the current squad. This profiling process helps him and the technical team to determine who is best suited for the next chapter,” Thotanyane said.
He added: “We are not going to part ways with any player prematurely. The coach will choose his preferred squad, and only those deemed not fit for the new vision will be released. Of course, those whose contracts are due to end will either be renewed or compensated fully.”
Thotanyane also noted that several player contracts were renewed under Mohapi’s leadership and reminded supporters that players are ultimately tied to the club, not individual coaches.
“Lioli FC players belong to the club, not to any individual coach. So, our supporters should not worry about the change in leadership. Our goal is continuity with improvement,” he emphasised.
Rather than initiating sweeping changes, Maseko is expected to bring in targeted reinforcements to bolster the championship-winning squad’s competitiveness as it prepares to defend its league title and pursue success in other competitions.
“We want the best talent in the country to wear the Lioli jersey. We are committed to excellence, and this process is the first step in maintaining our dominance in the Premier League,” Thotanyane concluded.
While the club has yet to make any official announcements regarding new signings, Newsday Sports has learned from credible sources that Lioli is close to re-signing star striker Masuoane, having seemingly fended off interest from other suitors for his signature.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
