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THE Premier Soccer League claims it is yet to get correspondence on the much talked about minimum qualification standards for top flight coaches.
Zifa have been going to town about how only Caf A license holders will be allowed to take charge of PSL clubs this forthcoming season.
But PSL chief executive Kenny Ndebele claims they are yet to officially hear from the local soccer governing body.
“I don’t remember receiving any such communication from Zifa directing us to enforce the minimum qualification requirement and consequently I have not communicated anything of that sought to the clubs.
“As far as I know it’s a matter that has been going on in the media but as soon as Zifa sends a letter we will notify the clubs on the new requirement,” he said
However, a letter seen by this paper from Zifa’s acting chief executive, Joseph Mamutse, and dated September 27, 2016 to his PSL counterpart Ndebele, speaks of minimum qualifications requirements.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association hereby notifies you in person and your esteemed office about coach standardisation to be effected from the 2017 soccer season,” Mamutse wrote to Ndebele.
“Please find listed below the recommended qualifications in their respective categories.
Premier League Head coach and assistant coach: CAF A plus level four. Division One head coach and assistant coach: CAF B plus level four …” wrote Mamutse.
Yesterday, Zifa spokesman Xolisani Gwesela warned they would come down hard on clubs whose coaches do not meet the minimum qualification requirements.
“That position was communicated to the league,” said Gwesela. “CAF even organised a club licensing workshop (where this was discussed) which was predominantly attended by PSL clubs. I am therefore extremely flabbergasted by such insinuations.
“Let me categorically state that Zifa will this year implement club licensing to the fullest and any unqualified coaches will never be allowed to sit on the bench,” said Gwesela.
Newly-appointed Harare City coach Mkhupali Masuku, whose highest coaching certificate is a CAF B licence, will be the biggest casualty if Zifa implements the regulations.
Online Reporter