derick.khumalo
Bongani Ndlovu, Zimpapers Sports Hub
Highlanders FC have identified player retention as one of the club’s biggest technical challenges, revealing that 34 first-team player contracts are set to expire over the next two years.
According to the chairman’s report presented by vice-chairman Sifiso Siziba at the club’s Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on Sunday, 14 first-team players’ contracts expire in December 2026, while a further 20 contracts run out in December 2027, a situation the club says requires urgent attention to ensure contractual stability.
The report lists contractual stability as one of several priority areas that need to be addressed as Highlanders seek to strengthen the technical side of the club.
Other key areas identified include upskilling the technical team, with coaches currently funding their own development programmes.
The report cited first-team coach Melusi “Mabaleka” Sibanda, who is self-funding his CAF B coaching licence.
The club also acknowledged that its technical equipment falls below the required standards, highlighting the need for modern technology such as GPS tracking and player monitoring equipment.
Highlanders further called for a holistic review of the club’s football philosophy and the introduction of performance measurement systems for coaches and players across the technical structure.
Player welfare also featured prominently, with the report identifying the need to improve wellness programmes, strength and conditioning, recovery systems, nutrition support and gym equipment.
The club also highlighted the need to improve playing and training facilities, while recommending the development of a structured recruitment and scouting policy to strengthen the squad in the long term.
The technical matters form part of a broader review presented to members as Highlanders seek to lay the foundation for sustained success on and off the field while preparing for the club’s centenary celebrations.
