By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Chippa United Football Club have parted ways with Belgian coach Luc Eymael, and welcomed back Vusimuzi Kanu Vilakazi as the new head coach.
Eymael, who took over from Sinethemba Badela, oversaw seven matches in all competitions, securing only one victory against Orbit College FC.
The team suffered four losses and managed two draws under his guidance.
Vilakazi, who landed in Gqeberha on Wednesday morning, has penned a deal that keeps him at the club until the end of the season, with a review of his future planned for the close of the campaign.
He has previously held the Technical Director role at Chippa, will be eager to turn the club’s fortunes around.
In a statement the club said, “Chippa United FC confirmed a mutual separation with Head Coach Luc Eymael. We thank him for his professionalism and wish him all the best in his future endeavours. We are pleased to welcome back Kanu Vilakazi as the new Head Coach.”
Familiar with our Club’ values and ambitions, he is well-placed to lead us forward in the Betway Premiership League. To our loyal supporters — thank you for your belief and encouragement. We promise to bounce back stronger as the Chilli Boys.”
Eymael also coached at Polokwane City and Black Leopards and has had a journeyman career around Africa.
His last job was at St Eloi Lupopo in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
He blotted his copybook in Tanzania, however, where Simba fired him after derogatory remarks he made in an extraordinary rant in mid-2020.
In a widely circulated recording, Eymael was heard calling Tanzanian fans dogs and comparing them to chanting monkeys after supporters criticised changes he made in a local league game.
Eymael later denied his comments were aimed at Yanga supporters and apologised, but he was still fired.
The Chilli Boys are set to return to action when they host AmaZulu FC in a league match at the Buffalo City Stadium in East London on November 1.