Lamontville Golden Arrows have announced the return of Mandla Ncikazi as head coach following their decision to part ways with Pitso Dladla, marking a reunion with a coach who previously guided the Durban-based club to one of its best league finishes.
Also Read: Golden Arrows part ways with Pitso Dladla
Ncikazi returns to Abafana Bes’thende after leaving the club in June 2021 to join Orlando Pirates, where he spent the following seasons as part of the technical team.
During his previous spell as Golden Arrows head coach in the 2020/21 season, Ncikazi led the team to a fourth-place finish in the league, setting a club record in the top flight.
His departure in 2021 came by mutual agreement after more than 15 years of involvement with the club in various coaching and development roles.
His return follows the departure of Dladla, whose position had come under scrutiny after Golden Arrows struggled for consistency in the opening stages of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign.
Before his exit, Arrows had recorded just one victory in their first eight league matches, drawing five and losing two. Their 1-0 defeat to Milford FC further intensified pressure on the technical team, with concerns also emerging over the side’s lack of goals.
Dladla had joined Golden Arrows after a successful spell with Durban City, where he played a key role in the club’s promotion to the top flight before guiding them to the 2026 Nedbank Cup title.
Also Read: Mandla Ncikazi leaves Orlando Pirates for head coaching role
Ncikazi brings considerable experience to the position, having worked with several clubs in South African football, including Maritzburg United and Golden Arrows, before joining Orlando Pirates in 2021.
During his time with the Buccaneers, he formed part of a technical team that enjoyed success in domestic competitions.
The appointment gives Ncikazi an opportunity to rebuild Golden Arrows’ campaign and draw on his previous experience at the club as they look to improve their league performances.
His familiarity with the club’s structures and development system could prove valuable as Abafana Bes’thende seek greater consistency in the remainder of the season.