2017 GOTV Champions AFC Leopards have reportedly sacked Coach Robert ‘The Lion’ Matano.
The former Tusker, Sofapaka and Ulinzi Stars tactician was serving a suspension for the past two weeks after falling out with Leopards’ management as well as a section of players.
Reports that assistant coach Tanzanian Dennis Kitambi will be in charge of the team on an interim basis until a new coach is appointed.
“It is official, Matano is no longer our coach, the issues labeled against him were gross and his stay could have damaged the team, so we decided mutually to take the best decision for both parties and as a club we wish him the best on his future endeavors,” AFC Leopards Secretary-General Oscar Igaida is quoted saying.
“Kitambi will lead the team on an interim basis until we appoint a new coach. We will appoint a foreigner, who we believe will take us to the next level,” he added.
Kitambi has already overseen three matches since Matano was asked to step aside, winning against Sony Sugar 2-0, Mathare United 4-3 and Wazito FC 3-2.
The club has also opted against terminating the contract of midfielder Collins ‘Gattuso’ Okoth.
Okoth, formerly of Gor Mahia, was suspended alongside Matano due to alleged gross misconduct. Igaida said that the player has been suspended for another two weeks, after which he will rejoin the team.
Robert Matano joined AFC Leopards last year, and guided the team to GOTV glory.