Eric Tinkler has wasted no time in making his mark at Sekhukhune United, spearheading a major squad overhaul shortly after taking over the reins from Lehlohonolo Seema.
The club has officially confirmed that several key players will be departing as part of a restructuring effort led by the newly appointed head coach.
Concerned that the ageing core of the squad could hinder the club’s competitiveness, Tinkler has taken decisive steps to refresh the roster with a focus on injecting youth, energy, and dynamism into the squad.
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His early moves signal a clear intent to reshape Sekhukhune United into a side that aligns with his vision and tactical approach.
“We’ve got a lot of experienced players; the likes of Cardoso, Mntambo, and Monare,” Tinkler told Radio 947.
“They played at big clubs and achieved big things. So, those players have been key features and extremely valuable to the club for the past two seasons.
“But we do have an ageing squad if I must be honest; [Badra] Sangare, Mntambo, [Lloyd] Kazapua, and [Cardoso] [are old]. There are several players who are ageing, and next season, we have to start looking to build and make the team even stronger.
“It’s not that we’ve already made the decision on any of them; we haven’t made the decision on them until next season, but we need to strengthen the squad if we want to be a team that competes in the top four.”
The club announced the release of four players as part of this overhaul. Among them is veteran midfielder Pogiso Mahlangu (32), who made just three appearances this season. His release is primarily attributed to limited on-pitch contributions and age.
Katlego Mkhabela (29), a regular starter at right back with 12 appearances this term, was also let go despite consistent performances.
Kamohelo Sithole (28), a left winger with only one appearance this season, struggled to break into the team and was consequently released.
Young full-back Cameron Carnell (22), who featured in four matches, was another casualty of the squad reshaping.
The departures mark the beginning of what is expected to be a busy transition period for the club as they seek to bring in fresh talent that will fit seamlessly into the system of the former Cape Town City manager.