mbulelo smpofu
Innocent Kurira, innocent.kurira@chronicle.co.zw
ARENEL’S leadership is set to convene this weekend for a comprehensive review of their maiden top-flight season and to chart a way forward following their relegation from the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
Despite speculation that the club may fold after a difficult inaugural campaign in the PSL, club president Handsome Ncube has vehemently denied such rumours.
“We shall hold a meeting where the chairman, treasurer, and technical team will present their reports on the concluded season. Simultaneously, we shall structure a way forward. I am confident that the team will compete in the Zifa Southern Region Division One League contrary to reports suggesting that this might be the last we see of this team,” said Ncube.
Arenel’s struggles were not only confined to the pitch as the club also faced significant challenges off it. During the season, they lost some members of the technical team. Kudzayi Mhandire, who led them to promotion, departed to join Talen Vision, while Boga Ndebele joined Platinum Queens.
Head coach Farai Tawachera quit the club late in the season and was replaced by Philani Ncube.
However, despite the change in coaching personnel, the team failed to avoid relegation. Ncube has already publicly stated that he will not be coaching in Division One next year.
The club’s financial troubles were a major significant contributing factor to their struggles.
Arenel’s season was marred by debilitating financial difficulties, which impacted the team’s performance.
The non-payment of players’ salaries was a major concern, leaving the squad in a precarious financial situation.
The financial woes also affected the team’s preparation for matches.
Players were forced to participate in games without training on several occasions. Furthermore, the team often had to play home games without a pre-match camp. – @innocentskizoe
