Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi
Zimpapers Sports Hub
PREMIERSHIP newboys Scottland are not wasting time ahead of their debut season in the top-flight league as they are now set to get their pre-season training in motion after unveiling new head coach Tonderai Ndiraya yesterday.
This comes as champions Simba Bhora also announced Ndiraya’s departure from the Shamva side along with 12 other players who include Soccer Star of the Year, Walter Musona.
According to reports, Musona is also headed for Scottland where he is set to link up with national team teammate Khama Billiat, who was unveiled last week.
Scottland have been the busiest among the 18 Premiership clubs during the festive period and are expected to make more announcements in the build-up to the new season.
The Mabvuku side, who have also been shaping up their administrative structures after announcing sponsorship deals as well as the recruitment of new chief executive officer Ronald Moyo, announced Ndiraya’s arrival on their social media platforms yesterday.
Ndiraya won the Castle Lager Premiership with Simba Bhora in only their second season last year.
Scottland made their move on the coach then sponsored a three-weeks trip to Turkey as part of an exchange program with Kocaelispor, a Division One club in the Turkish Football Federation second tier.
The former Dynamos coach returned from the Eastern European country at the weekend, ahead of his unveiling.
“Simba Bhora FC and head coach Tonderai Ndiraya have mutually agreed to part ways. The club expresses gratitude towards Ndiraya for the last two seasons where he presided over 12th and first position finishes.
“We wish Stanza the very best for the future. Meanwhile, Joel Lupahla is set to take over from Ndiraya as head coach.
“Lupahla brings a wealth of local football experience to the club, having most recently served as the Dynamos assistant coach,” said a statement from Simba Bhora.
The club also announced the departure of Musona, Vassili Kawe, Tichaona Chipunza, Mthokozosi Msebe, Onifade Abubakar, Patson Jaure, Perfect Chikwende, Albert Manenji, Valentine Musarurwa, Simbarashe Maramwidze, Talent Chawapihwa and the two goalkeepers Talbert Shumba and Tymon Mvula.
“We appreciate your dedication to the growth of the Simba Bhora brand and will always value your contribution to our success in the 2024 season.
“Simba Bhora wishes you continued success in your future endeavors.”
Striker Tymon Machope, who has been linked with a move to Simba Bhora, was among the players that reported for pre-season yesterday along with Tinashe Balakasi, Billy Veremu, Isheanesu Mauchi and goalkeeper Simba Chinani.
