Bosso goes quite on Benjani

HIGHLANDERS have gone quiet on the biggest football question in Bulawayo right now — whether former Warriors captain Benjani "Undertaker" Mwaruwari is set to take charge of the Bosso dugout.

Mwaruwari has been strongly linked with the job in recent days, with South African tactician Thabo Senong widely tipped to come in as his assistant as Highlanders reshuffle their technical bench ahead of a fast-approaching new season.

But both the club and the former Premier League striker have declined to confirm the reports.

Contacted on Tuesday night, Mwaruwari refused to be drawn into the speculation, keeping his cards close as rumours continued to dominate WhatsApp groups, social media platforms and Bulawayo's football circles.

Highlanders chief executive Denzel Mnkandla said the club would not comment until there is a signed and finalised agreement.

"The Benjani issue is an issue that the club has not spoken about or responded to, and rightly so," said Mnkandla.

"It will remain that way until the club and Benjani have an agreement of some sort. Nothing to comment on at this time."

Behind the scenes, however, Bosso's backroom staff is being quietly restructured. Former Highlanders player Mkhokheli Dube is expected to take up the role of second assistant coach as part of a wider reorganisation aimed at tightening the technical set-up and speeding up decision-making.

The delay in announcing a coach is beginning to have an impact. Planning, recruitment and pre-season preparations have all been affected, and Highlanders now head into their annual general meeting (AGM) on Sunday with members demanding clarity and direction.

Bosso life member Chunkie Dube said supporters are growing impatient as the pre-season window narrows.

"We are kindly asking to be guided accordingly. We have been hearing so many stories from the newspapers and social media," said Dube.

"January is almost over. When will the coach get to understand his players? I think the club is running out of time and the pre-season period is about to conclude."

Supporters are divided on who should take charge.

Prominent fan Thabisa ‘SaBosso' Gundu said while he had seen the Benjani reports, his preference remains Senong — a coach whose name has previously been linked with the club.

Others believe Highlanders should take a calculated gamble on Mwaruwari, arguing that his pedigree and profile alone could lift the club's fortunes.

"Benjani has seen it all in football. He has played at the highest level, and he has the qualifications and backing from people who are willing to take care of his salary," said supporter Jongilanga Ndondo.

Winston Banda echoed similar sentiments, saying Bosso should embrace the opportunity to appoint a "Bulawayo boy".

"I think it will be wise to hire Benjani. He has a pull factor to fans, players and sponsors. He is a brand that can help Bosso in so many ways," Banda said.

"Also as fans and members we should support the club financially. We should not always move around with a begging bowl."

Others have chosen to wait for official communication from the club.

"The wise thing now is to wait for the official word from Highlanders," said Rambirai Zvoma.

On social media, the debate has been emotional and deeply personal.

"If you love Bosso, then support him (Mwaruwari). Highlanders FC will never die," wrote Progress Mutsamusha Sibanda on Facebook.

"The team is the only thing preserving Bulawayo culture today. Supporting Bosso is a lifestyle."

Long-time follower Cathrine Mkhwananzi struck a different tone, stressing loyalty to the badge rather than individuals.

"I don't support Benjani, I support Highlanders. Whoever comes on board will get my support," she wrote.

"Coaches, players and leaders come and go, but Highlanders will always remain."

Businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo has emerged as a key figure in the club's evolving direction after offering to pay Mwaruwari's salary — a move insiders say shifted the dynamics of the technical discussions at a time Senong was being touted as the main candidate.

Chivayo is also reported to have pledged funding for a pre-season camp and player recruitment, raising expectations among supporters eager to see tangible backing translate into results on the pitch.

With the AGM now just days away, Mnkandla said the club's immediate focus is on Sunday's meeting.

"The AGM is an important gathering where members will receive updates on season preparedness, the financial audit and the general direction of the club," he said.

"We are three days away and are working hard to ensure it is a success."