Sekhukhune United Physio Denies Maja Joins Rhulani Mokwena in Libya

Key facts

• Denies Maja, Sekhukhune United's head physiotherapist, is joining Al-Ittihad in Libya.
• The move reunites Maja with former Mamelodi Sundowns tactician Rhulani Mokwena.
• Maja's departure from Sekhukhune United is reportedly a formality.
• The deal for Maja to join Al-Ittihad is nearing completion.
• Maja holds a FIFA Diploma and other advanced medical qualifications.
• Sekhukhune United has not responded to requests for comment.
• The club is also seeking a new permanent head coach.

Medical Expert Departs for Tripoli

Sekhukhune United's highly-rated head physiotherapist, Denies Maja, is reportedly set to join Libyan club Al-Ittihad. The move marks a significant addition to the technical team of South African tactician Rhulani Mokwena, who recently took the helm at the North African giants. Maja's departure is understood to be a formality, with the deal progressing rapidly behind the scenes. Mokwena, a former head coach for Wydad Casablanca and Mamelodi Sundowns, is actively reshaping his backroom staff at Al-Ittihad. His focus on bolstering the medical department signals a commitment to professional standards as the club aims for higher echelons. The recruitment of Maja underscores Mokwena's trust in South African football expertise. The move is expected to see Maja fly out of South Africa imminently to begin his new role in Tripoli. This development indicates that Mokwena is receiving substantial backing from the Al-Ittihad board to assemble a trusted personnel contingent.

A Rapidly Finalised Transfer

Sources close to the situation confirm that Maja's exit from Sekhukhune United, often referred to as 'Babina Noko', is all but confirmed. The transfer has unfolded swiftly, with the physiotherapist scheduled to depart early this week. His integration into the Libyan side's setup is expected to be immediate upon finalisation. "What I can tell you is that the Sekhukhune United physio, Denies Maja, is joining Rhulani Mokwena’s team in Libya. Everything is sorted out already," a source revealed. This statement suggests a seamless transition for Maja, moving from the Premier Soccer League to North African football. Al-Ittihad's swift action in securing Maja highlights their ambition and Mokwena's influence in the transfer market. The club appears eager to equip their technical team with the best available talent, reinforcing their strategic objectives for the upcoming season.

Maja's Impressive Credentials

Denies Maja arrives in Libya with a distinguished professional record. He has served as the head of medical services at Sekhukhune United, a role that demanded extensive knowledge and application of sports science. His qualifications are comprehensive, including a FIFA Diploma and registration as a FIFA Safeguard Officer. Furthermore, Maja possesses specializations in critical areas such as Sports Nutrition and Conditioning, alongside Periodisation. These advanced skills are vital for optimising player performance and recovery, attributes that Mokwena will undoubtedly value in his new environment. The acquisition of Maja by Al-Ittihad is a testament to his expertise and the high regard in which he is held within the football fraternity. His contributions are expected to significantly enhance the medical capabilities of the Libyan club.

Sekhukhune United Navigates Coaching Transition

The departure of Maja occurs against a backdrop of significant structural changes at Sekhukhune United. The club is actively seeking a new permanent head coach for the upcoming season, indicating a broader strategic restructuring. Caretaker coach Paulus Masehe is unlikely to be handed the role on a permanent basis. Masehe took charge for the remainder of the campaign following the exit of Eric Tinkler, who was dismissed due to inconsistent results. While Masehe has been tasked with stabilising the team, his role is expected to remain interim. The club is understood to be exploring options for a long-term solution. This coaching search is part of a revamped technical structure that includes the appointment of Walter Steenbok as Director of Football Strategy and McDonald Makhubedu as Sporting Director. These appointments are believed to be instrumental in shaping the club's future plans and ambitions to compete at the top of the Betway Premiership.

No Comment from Babina Noko

When contacted for comment regarding Denies Maja's impending departure and the club's search for a new head coach, Sekhukhune United provided no response at the time of publishing. This silence leaves the specifics of the situation and the club's immediate plans open to interpretation. Paulus Masehe has overseen two matches as caretaker coach, securing one draw and one loss. His immediate focus remains on finishing the season strongly and maintaining squad stability, despite the apparent likelihood that the club will look elsewhere for a permanent appointment. The club's pursuit of an experienced head coach capable of delivering immediate results underscores their ambition to challenge for domestic honours. The coming weeks will likely reveal more about Sekhukhune United's direction under their new leadership and strategic framework.

The bottom line

• Rhulani Mokwena is actively rebuilding his technical team at Al-Ittihad in Libya.
• Denies Maja, a highly qualified physiotherapist, is leaving Sekhukhune United to join Mokwena's staff.
• Maja's move to Al-Ittihad is reportedly a done deal and expected to be finalised imminently.
• Sekhukhune United is also in the process of searching for a new permanent head coach.
• The club has undergone broader restructuring with new football strategy and sporting directors appointed.
• Sekhukhune United has not provided official comment on Maja's departure.