Massive clear-out at Highlanders AM

By Sibusiso Masilela

A massive player clear-out is expected at capital city giants Mbabane Highlanders AM FC ahead of the new season.

A source close to the matter revealed that the technical bench plans to release several players before the end of the week, with approximately 20 departures expected from the 34 players currently in camp.

“A major overhaul is expected as the technical bench will submit a list of players who made the grade during assessments to General Manager (GM) Richard Makhoba before the end of the week.

“The technical bench including coach Ernest Mavuso has identified new players to join the team, who are expected to travel to Pietermaritzburg this week,” the source said.

Makhoba could not be reached for comment on the matter. The club president, Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize, said they would make announcements of the team during the gathering slated for August 23,2025 when the camp ends.

“We will share the latest team developments, including new players and coaches, during our gathering on August 23, 2025,” she said.

Mkhize is being assisted by a two-member board comprising her son, Andile Mpisane, and local businessman Fortune Nxumalo.

The team recently featured in a friendly match against newly promoted Motsepe Foundation Midlands Wanderers.

The crowd pullers’ technical bench is headed by former Green Mamba coach Ernest Mavuso. He is assisted by former Amazulu FC development coach Ronnie Moroka.

The team’s legends Phumuza ‘El Katib’ Ntshangase and Sifiso ‘Barnes’ Mkhulisi are also part of the technical bench, albeit on interim basis as the club needed available people to travel with the squad for the preseason camp.

Patrons spokesperson Charles ‘Ace’ Jele, who doubles as interim club Public Relations Officer (PRO), also confirmed on Monday there were going to squad changes, with outgoing and incomings expected.

Meanwhile, legendary former goalkeeper Sipho ‘Shilton’ Dube will join the team before the end of the week as goalkeeper coach.