Orbit College GM Clears the Air on Coach Makhonye and Saleng’s Relationship
- Orbit College General Manager has clarified the ongoing issue with the club's coach and Monnapule Saleng
- Saleng joined the newly-promoted Premier Soccer League side in the summer, but he's yet to hit the ground running at his new club
- The PSL side's GM's words gathered different reactions from netizens on social media as they wondered about what's going on with Saleng in his new club
Orbit College General Manager Matome Kganakga has opened up on the relationship between coach Pogiso Makhonye and Orlando Pirates loanee Monnapule Saleng.
Source: Getty Images
Saleng joined Orbit College from Pirates on loan for the rest of the season, but recent reports suggest a little issue between the Bafana Bafana star and his current coach.
Orbit College recently denied a statement claiming the club apologised to Saleng; rather, they were only apologising for their coach's comments towards the player.
Kganakga addresses Makhonye and Saleng’s Relationship
Kgaakga moved to clarify the situation surrounding head coach Pogiso Makhonye and winger Monnapule Saleng, insisting that their bond has been misunderstood.
“The problem lies in how people interpreted the coach’s words. This is not a professional dispute, it’s more of a parent-and-child relationship,” Kganakga explained to iDiski Times.
“Many may not realise that Coach Pogiso actually raised Saleng. Naturally, the way he speaks to him is different from how he addresses other players."
Kganakga dismissed any talk of tension, stressing that the connection runs deep: “It’s simply a father-and-son dynamic, not bad blood. Saleng himself has said openly that he views Pogiso as a father figure, even before joining us. Unfortunately, some things were blown out of proportion.”
On Saleng’s performances, Kganakga acknowledged that the winger is still finding his feet after limited game-time at his parent club before joining Orbit on loan.
He also confirmed that the coaching staff is focusing on helping the Pirates loanee improve his fitness. Since he hasn’t had many opportunities to play lately, it will take some time.
Source: Getty Images
He acknowledged that the coach’s remarks were intended as constructive advice, not as criticism. He’s also receiving the support he needs to get back to his peak performance and demonstrate his full potential on the field.
Reactions to Orbit GM's statement
KamogeloMa92354 asked:
"What's wrong with Saleng?"
Nkunzibeyivimbisana said:
"Sometimes ppl must express themselves in their own language. I've just read a Barca post saying Lamal has pubic area pain. Thts a groin injury. Pubic means something completely different."
Mograine Ramukosi shared:
"His Job as a general manager and thank you as things tend to be blown out of proportion."
ntuthukosilo commented:
"A father protects his son, not what the coach said."
Brezzada reacted:
"Saleng is getting in the news for the wrong reasons even after leaving Pirates, one would even think he was the problem back at his parent club."
Moremi added:
"This situation looks unsalvageable."
Saleng's Orlando Pirates struggles
Briefly News previously reported that Saleng is battling with depression, worsened by his dissatisfaction with the club.
The Bafana Bafana star reportedly feels underpaid, believing that his contributions on the field are not adequately reflected in his salary.
Source: Briefly News
