MOSIMANE APPOINTED AS NEW ESTEGHLAL HEAD COACH IN IRAN

Written by: Kamogelo Mogale
Persian Gulf Pro League outfit Esteghal FC have announced Pitso Mosimane as their new head coach on a one-year deal. The South African tactician has unattached for four months after he parted ways with the Saudi Arabian side of the Abha Club back in June 2024.

After seven league matches played, the Famous Royal Blues has managed to collect eight points. So far, the team has registered two victories, two draws and suffered three defeats. MT Sports Management, who manages Mosimane, announced via their socials that Jingles has agreed to a contract that will expire at the conclusion of the current season. The former Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly coach will be joined by his technical team; Maahier Davids, Kabelo Rangoaga, Musi Matlaba, and Kyle Solomon.

Mosimane joins the club following the departure of Javad Nekounam, who leaves after a poor start to the season. The club were also beaten 3-0 by Zob Ahan on Friday, prior to Mosimane’s appointment.

“Esteghlal F.C. is a very big club in the Gulf region, with a long and illustrious history. The two Asian Champions League stars on top of their badge tell you what kind of club this is,” Mosimane said in a statement.

“Their last trophy was won in 2022, and we can believe their fans are hungry for glory once again. The challenge that awaits us is steep, but it is our privilege to lead such a prolific club. I would like to thank the club leadership for placing their trust in us. We are ready to get to work,” Mosimane added.

Esteghlal FC was defeated 1-0 by Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in their AFC Champions League match at the Al-Rashid stadium on Tuesday courtesy of a goal by Aymeric Laporte. Mosimane’s first assignment will be a league against Kheybar on Saturday.