Marumo Gallants chairman Abram Sello has expressed his enthusiasm over the arrival of new head coach Alexandre Lafitte, describing the club as fortunate to secure his services.
At just 28, Alexandre already boasts a remarkable track record—having made history in 2023 as the youngest manager of a top-flight professional team when he took charge of Stade d’Abidjan at age 25.
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His appointment comes as Gallants bid farewell to outgoing coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who recently accepted the head coaching role at Orlando Pirates.
This is the second time Sello has opted for a young, relatively unknown coach after previously appointing a 31-year-old Romain Folz, who only spent a brief time with the club before spells with Horoya, AmaZulu and Mamelodi Sundowns.
Reflecting on his latest appointment, the Gallants chairman explained that both parties have the same “hunger for success”.
Alexandre joins Gallants having just led Stade Abidjan to their first Ivorian title in 56 years.
Sello said on IOL: “I think as our payline, Bahlabane Ba Ntwa, when we look for someone, we really mean business.
“We happen to be lucky by speaking to the right people — we study first, check the profiles, and consult. With that help, it makes us feel great about the candidate.
“We had previous coaches where the media said, ‘look how young he is’. But they ended up at Mamelodi Sundowns, FIFA, AmaZulu or Horoya. That kind of development makes us proud, especially if you look at where Romain Folz and Abdes (Ouaddou) are right now.
“We just wish them luck when they go elsewhere. We don’t block anyone’s way up the ladder, coach or player, because they were with us.”
Sello added: “We interviewed a number of coaches and chose the one aligned with our club’s growth and his hunger for success. We will give him the platform to develop himself and the club. It’s not about nationality — the profile and intention are key.
“In the league, we’re aiming for a better position — closer to the title, as a dream. If things go well for him, we could get there. But let’s start simple — get a Top 8 finish.”