BONGANI MALUNGA
Gaborone United and Prisons XI are currently going head to head for the signature of Philemon Makhwengwe. Makhwengwe guided Prisons XI to the BTC Premiership for the forthcoming season but his contract with the club expired in June, GU were alerted of this situation and they have pounced by countering Prisons’ offer.
The coach helped Prisons gain promotion to the top tier of local football for the 2018/2019 season but his former club GU could foil Prisons’ plans to prolong his stay and help them become a respectable force in the BTC Premiership.
The expiration of his contract at Prisons has rendered him a free agent and he is currently exploring his options according to a reliable source. Makhwengwe is currently sitting on two offers from both clubs, it appears whoever makes a more attractive offer will land the coveted coach.
Makhwengwe has reportedly held meetings with both camps in recent weeks, he has been impressed by Prisons’ proposal but he has not yet made up his mind. The current uncertainty and turmoil at GU was expected to throw him off but he reportedly views that as a challenge rather than a risk, this could be music to the ears of the GU faithful as he is believed to be many supporters’ choice to fill the vacant head coach position.
Makhwengwe guided GU to the 2012 Coca Cola Cup, which was the last time the competition was staged, this publication has been informed that the general membership of GU believe that he could guide them back to where they want to be, challenging for trophies.
The potential return of former financier Nicholas Zackhem could also play a huge role in swaying things in GU’s favour as the businessman would guarantee an attractive financial package for Makhwengwe.
Another report reaching this publication has suggested that GU are confident that they have already agreed a deal with Makhwengwe and they are braced to make an announcement soon but the source close to Makhwengwe has denied that an agreement is in place as the coach is still in the decision making process.