Dan 'Dance' Malesela to take over at African giants?

Foot Africa has been led to believe that Dan ‘Dance’ Malesela is among the leading candidates shortlisted for the vacant post at Mbabane Highlanders AM.

The 61-year-old mentor is currently unattached after parting ways with Baroka FC in October 2025, before the Limpopo club was relegated to the amateur ranks last season.

Notably, Mbabane Highlanders AM are owned by controversial businesswoman Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize, whose Royal AM side was expelled from the PSL in South Africa.

This came on the heels of tax regulators South African Revenue Services (SARS) freezing MaMkhize's assets, including the team, over alleged R40 million tax debt.

With the case proving a high-profile scandal that brought the PSL into disrepute, Royal AM were subsequently booted out of the Betway Premiership in the 2024/25 season.

MaMkhize, as a result, took over at the Eswatini giants Mbabane Highlanders in July 2025, roping in several South Africa internationals, including Brilliant Khuzwayo.

Having finished fifth last season, the 13-time league champions recently parted ways with South African coach Selaotse ‘Sly’ Mosala, who has left for Moneni Pirates.

Now, sources have indicated that Malesela is among leading candidates for the vacant seat in the dugout, having previously worked with MaMkhize at Royal AM back in 2022.

However, it's understood the well-travelled tactician faces stiff competition from former Mamelodi Sundowns scout and youth development expert Floyd ‘Mourinho’ Mogale.

Mogale, who has coached Black Leopards and Royal AM in his native country is said to be the frontrunner, with the club expected to imminently announce the new boss.

The new coach's first test will be in the Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup on Saturday, 18 July, in a four-team tournament that includes AmaZulu FC, Ulundi United, and Nsingizini Hotspurs.

Hlayisani Magoro

Editorfr, en

Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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