A significant chapter in South African football is unfolding as AmaZulu’s new co-coach Arthur Zwane and the club’s latest goalkeeper, Richard Ofori, express their enthusiasm for what lies ahead in the 2024/2025 Premiership season.
Stepping into the vibrant culture of KwaZulu-Natal, Zwane has left behind his influential role at Kaizer Chiefs to take on the joint managerial duties at AmaZulu, marking a defining shift in his career.
Zwane, affectionately known as ‘10111’, now assumes responsibilities that stretch across the entire province alongside co-coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi.
The seasoned 50-year-old is quickly acclimatising to his new environment, and has already thrown himself into intense training sessions with his players as they gear up for tomorrow’s Carling Knockout Cup fixture against Stellenbosch FC (7pm kick-off) at King Zwelithini Stadium in uMlazi.
In a recent media address at the club’s training facility, Zwane reflected upon his pivotal decision to join AmaZulu, emphasising the allure of resurrecting the club’s fortunes.
“I’m a person that enjoys pressure,” Zwane stated passionately.
“I enjoyed it as a player, and I also enjoy it as a coach now. I know what is at stake here, what is expected from us, and I will be working with people that I know very well, the structure of the team.
“The game model and the vision are the things that made me want to be here.”
For Zwane, the move transcends personal ambition; it embodies a collective purpose aimed at benefiting South African football as a whole.
🎙️🟢⚪️ Here is an exclusive first interview with our newly appointed co-coaches mapping the way forward!#ThatsPower#HebeUsuthu#UsuthuTogether pic.twitter.com/0hnFpRM3XD
“It’s not about being at a place where you want to be; it’s all about working. If this should benefit the national team, I will be happy,” he explained, highlighting his commitment to nurturing talent and enhancing the province’s potential.
Joining Zwane in this new era is Ghanaian international Richard Ofori, a figure who understands the weight of history at AmaZulu, the oldest club in South Africa.
The former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper completed a transfer on a free deal, relishing the prospect of establishing his legacy at such an iconic club.
“I was in discussions with my management about a few offers, but they weren’t what I was looking for. I was waiting for the right opportunity to come, and then I got a call from AmaZulu,” Ofori relayed excitedly.
Ofori, who previously played for Maritzburg United and now steps into a lineage of greats at AmaZulu, remarked on the familiar feel of KwaZulu-Natal after spending four years in the region.
“We are here to represent the oldest club in the country, which is something I’m happy about because I want to be in a space that has history behind it,” he affirmed, signalling his ambition to contribute to the club’s storied legacy.
With the Carling Knockout Cup fixture on the horizon, the excitement surrounding AmaZulu is palpable.
Under the guidance of Zwane and Ofori, the club hope to carve a new narrative into their historical presence and reignite the passion of their loyal supporters.