Eymael replaces Soccoia as Black Leopards coach

Luc Eymael was announced as new Black Leopards head coach on a two seasons deal at the club’s offices in Polokwane on Thursday.

Eymael replaces Lionel Soccoia, who parted ways with the side last week along with some members of his technical team including assistant Patrick Mabedi.

According to club Director Tshifhiwa Thidiela, the coach only landed in the country on Thursday and will not sit on the bench when Leopards play Bloemfontein Celtic in Thohoyandou on Sunday.

Thidiela further adds that whether or not the coach needs a new assistant coach will be determined by his assessment of the team.

The former Polokwane City and Free State Stars coach says he has been in contact with the Vhembe-based side for a long time, but the time and the league Leopards were campaigning in were not right for him.

The Belgian’s return to South Africa comes weeks after he and Golden Arrows coach Steve Komphela were involved in a war of words in the media.

Following the KwaZulu Natal derby between Arrows and AmaZulu a fort weekend ago Komphela said local clubs should stay away from Eymael.

The former Kaizer Chiefs mentor went on to say Eymael was disrespectful and insulting. Eymael says he wants to put an end to this chapter.

When asked about Li Doda Duvha’s stance on this matter, Thidiela said as a club they are not getting involved in things outside the club.

– Report by Lethabo Kganyago