Highlanders FC set for shock coaching U-turn as Benjani Mwaruwari emerges frontrunner
Just weeks after unveiling Thabo Senong as head coach, Highlanders FC are reportedly preparing to reverse course, with former Manchester City and Jomo Cosmos striker Benjani Mwaruwari now poised to take over the top job.
Senong was only earlier this month announced as the new Bosso head coach, with the Bulawayo giants publicly welcoming both him and assistant Mkhokheli Dube in an official club statement. However, in a dramatic twist, reports now suggest that the South African tactician will no longer lead the team after just two weeks in charge.
According to Herald Online, Highlanders are in advanced talks with Mwaruwari over the head coach position. While no final agreement has been confirmed, insiders are said to be confident that discussions are progressing positively.
The report adds that the proposed change is driven by a desire for stronger alignment between the club’s leadership and its sponsors. Under the emerging structure, Senong would reportedly remain at the club in an assistant coach role, working under Mwaruwari.
Club sponsor and businessman Wicknell Chivhayo is said to be prepared to personally cover Mwaruwari’s salary, a move that has reportedly accelerated the talks.
Earlier this week, Mwaruwari marked a significant milestone in his post-playing career after completing a Diploma in Professional Soccer Coaching in Liverpool, United Kingdom. Reflecting on the achievement, the former Warriors captain wrote on Facebook: “This graduation is not the destination, but the beginning of a long and purposeful journey in football coaching.”
If confirmed, the appointment would mark a major statement by Highlanders, handing the reins to one of Zimbabwe football’s most high-profile figures amid an already turbulent start to their new technical era.