In a fresh twist of events in the Debmarine Namibia Premiership, long-time Tura Magic gaffer Gareth ‘Fortune’ Eichab has separated from the club, and the reasons for his sudden departure remain unclear.

New Era Sport established through sources that Eichab cut ties with the Katutura outfit on Monday this week through a hasty resignation letter sent to the club’s leadership, but the Rehoboth-born mentor did not divulge reasons for his abrupt decision. 

Upon enquiry, club official Isack Hamata yesterday confirmed Eichab’s resignation as head coach of the men’s senior team, saying they too were caught off guard by the resignation, as there have been no problems within the club. 

“We can confirm that coach Fortune Eichab submitted his resignation to us in writing on Monday. He has done wonderful work for the club and he was a pleasure to have; he was like a father to our players and a friend to the technical team and executive committee members. We would have appreciated an

opportunity to be engaged before he decided to resign. But what we want to put on record is that coach Eichab’s departure is a sad loss for the club,” said Hamata.

“He just put together an exciting group of youngsters who are eager to take the team to new heights. But we cut our losses and move on. We wish him all the best as he takes on new coaching assignments.”

Timo Tjongarero, one of the club’s directors and one of the country’s experienced coaches, will temporarily take charge of the senior team until a suitable replacement is secured, Hamata shared. 

Eichab was instrumental in guiding Tura Magic to a third-place finish in the Namibia Premier League (NPL) on his debut season behind winners Black Africa and second-placed African Stars during the 2018/2019 season. He was also nominated in the coach of the year category that season. 

One of the country’s most adored football entities, Tura Magic last weekend started life in the Debmarine Namibia Premiership with a narrow 0-1 defeat to Young Brazilians in Karasburg. The club has assembled a decent group of young players, many of whom showed great potential during their maiden fixture in the Debmarine Premiership.

- ohembapu@nepc.com.na