“If You Have the Courage, Please Approach Me and Clear the Air” – Kanalelo Tells African Stars Chairman
Ronnie Kanalelo has hit back at African Stars chairman Salomo Hei after the Namibian club indicated that it was seeking legal advice over his surprise appointment as head coach of South African side Marumo Gallants.
African Stars reportedly believe Kanalelo remained under contract with the club when Gallants announced his appointment on Monday, raising concerns that his move could amount to a breach of contract.
The situation has also left African Stars facing uncertainty ahead of their CAF Champions League second-round tie against South African champions Orlando Pirates, with the Namibian club previously expecting Kanalelo to remain in charge for the crucial continental fixture.
Hei has suggested that the club could have grounds to pursue the matter, but Kanalelo has now responded directly to the African Stars chairman, insisting that his contract allowed him to take up an international coaching opportunity.
“I believe Solomo should come forward and tell me what issues he has with me. It seems we are at odds again. If you have the courage, please approach me and clear the air. I’m truly tired of your inflated ego,” Kanalelo said in a social media post.
The coach also addressed questions about his presence at Marumo Gallants’ training on Monday, confirming that he was at the session before his appointment was officially announced.
“Regarding your question about my presence at Gallants’ training yesterday morning, I was indeed there. However, whether I was there to coach or to watch training remains the real question,” he said.
Kanalelo then confirmed that he had officially started his new position.
“I officially started my new coaching job with Marumo Gallants this morning,” he stated.
On the contractual dispute, Kanalelo maintained that African Stars had no grounds to prevent him from pursuing the move, saying his agreement specifically provides for an international coaching opportunity.
“Lastly, my contract clearly states that African Stars will not obstruct me when an international coaching opportunity arises. Solomo doesn’t know that because contractual matters are now handled by Patrick. He must just wish me luck and move on,” Kanalelo said.
The dispute now leaves the relationship between Kanalelo and African Stars under significant strain, with the club considering its next steps while the coach begins his new chapter in South Africa.
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