Premier League-winning coach and former FC Ongos mentor Mervin Mbakera has set his sights on coaching teams outside Namibia, despite currently being without a club.

In a recent interview, Mbakera shared what he has been up to since parting ways with last season’s league runners-up FC Ongos in December last year. “After I left Ongos in December, I took some time off to be with my family. I also went into fasting, which occupied most of my time last year, but I have now settled well,” he said.

When asked if he had received any coaching offers locally or abroad, the former Tigers player confirmed that there had been interest. 

“Yes, I received two offers from local clubs and two more from teams outside the country. One of the international offers fell through, but the other is still in the pipeline,” he revealed.

“I am waiting for the right project, one where I am in sync with the management and board’s vision. Our demands also need to be met before committing to any project,” he added. Reflecting on his time with FC Ongos and African Stars, Mbakera expressed gratitude for the experience gained. “It’s one of those moments you have to embrace because of the lessons it teaches. The experience helped me grow as a person. Change is inevitable, and I take it as it comes. Overall, I am thankful for the opportunity to work and learn,” he said.

Looking ahead, the coach shared his long-term ambition of establishing a technical school focused on mentoring and developing young talent.

“My biggest ambition is to one day be part of a technical school that nurtures both sporting and life skills in young people. It’s something that will help improve their abilities from an early age,” he added.

-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na