Lamontville Golden Arrows have parted ways with head coach Pitso Dladla with immediate effect, the Durban-based club confirmed on Thursday, 22 October 2026, amid speculation linking former coach Mandla Ncikazi with a return to the club.
In a statement, Golden Arrows thanked Dladla for his efforts, commitment and dedication during his tenure. The club did not provide further details regarding the circumstances surrounding his departure.
Ncikazi has emerged as a leading candidate to take over the coaching position, with reports suggesting that the experienced mentor could return to Abafana Bes’thende following his departure from Orlando Pirates.
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The 57-year-old was previously in charge of Golden Arrows during the 2020/21 season, guiding the team to a fourth-place finish in the top flight before joining Pirates in 2021. He subsequently served in various coaching roles at the Soweto club.
His potential return would represent a familiar appointment for Golden Arrows, given his previous experience at the club and knowledge of its football structures.
However, the situation remains subject to confirmation. Earlier on Thursday, reports indicated that Golden Arrows had dismissed speculation surrounding Ncikazi’s appointment and maintained that Dladla remained in charge.
The latest departure announcement would therefore mark a significant development in the unfolding coaching situation.
Ncikazi’s next destination has been linked to Golden Arrows after Orlando Pirates had agreed to his departure to pursue a head coaching opportunity elsewhere in the Betway Premiership.
Also Read: Mandla Ncikazi leaves Orlando Pirates for head coaching role
Golden Arrows have yet to formally confirm Ncikazi as their new head coach.
The coaching change comes as the club looks to improve its fortunes in the Betway Premiership, with the team having managed just one victory in its opening eight league matches.