Hesron Kapanga

Former African Stars coach Ronny Kanalelo was not forced out of the club.

He helped the team to win the 2023/24 Debmarine Namibia Premiership title and the PstBet Namibia Football Association (NFA) Cup.

Kanalelo, who was appointed as African Stars coach on 22 February 2024, stepped down from his duties last week Wednesday.

This is despite him leading his team to the semi-finals of the inaugural edition of the MTC Maris Cup, set to take place this coming weekend.

Speaking to Nampa last week, Kanalelo said the separation from the team was mutual. 

He expressed satisfaction at having built a team that plays effective transitional football.

“As an individual, I have projects that I want to focus on. I believe this is the right time for me to dedicate attention to my ideas. I know the current African Stars team possesses depth and will achieve whatever goals they set for themselves,” Kanalelo said.

The coach added that some of his goals involve coach development, an area that is overlooked in the country. 

“We have numerous coaches who are skilled or have the potential to coach but lack a few technicalities. With some time on my hands, I would now like to concentrate on that. I would love to explore this direction, as it will help enhance the game and the individuals,” he stated.

Kanalelo said people should not believe everything said in the streets or within football circles regarding his departure from African Stars.

“Stepping down from African Stars does not imply that we have a problem, nor does it mean I am unwilling to work with them. This was a personal decision that I made. The team agreed to let me go. However, when the time comes again, I will return as a coach to work on realising the team’s dreams,” he added.

During his tenure at the club, he has a record of 34 matches, with 23 wins, six draws and five
defeats. -Nampa