Kaitano Tembo has sent a heartfelt message to SuprtSport United after being relieved of his duties as head coach this week.
Tembo ended his 23-year association with the club after they parted ways following their Nedbank Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of second-tier side TTM.
Despite leading a youthful squad with eight players in the starting line-up under the age of 25, SuperSport made the decision with the club now in eighth place in the league.
Tembo first served as a player before holding a role as an assistant coach under Gavin Hunt, Stuart Baxter and Eric Tinkler before being appointed as head coach and he’s paid homage to the club as he looks towards the next step of his career.
Kaitano Tembo’s record as SuperSport head coach:
🏟️ 135 games
✅ 55 wins
🔄 38 draws
❌ 42 losses🏆 1 MTN8 trophy
He leaves SSU after serving 23 years; first as player, later as assistant to Gavin Hunt, Stuart Baxter and Eric Tinkler before becoming head coach.#DStvPrem pic.twitter.com/XjH7XhZvvk
— iDiski Times (@iDiskiTimes) April 12, 2022
“SuperSport United has been my home and family for the past 23 years and I am very proud of the personal and professional growth that the club has afforded me,” he wrote in his statement.
“Beginning in the youth structures and transitioning into senior coaching roles, my appointment as Head Coach of SuperSport United, one of the leading football clubs in South Africa was and remains something that I will always be extremely proud of.”
The statement continued: “My coaching staff and the players have all worked incredibly hard over the last four seasons and I value the commitment and loyalty. I would like to extend my gratitude to not only them but to the fans and everyone connected to the club and the wider community of SuperSport United.
“I remain proud to have overseen the MTN8 Cup victory in 2019 whilst leading the club as best as I possibly could both locally and in continental competitions. I also took great fulfilment in developing, promoting youth and watching them flourish at the senior level.
“However, recent performances and results have not been what SuperSport United and its fans are used to or expect and I both understand and share their frustration. I am eternally grateful to the Chairman, the Board and CEO Stan Matthews for believing in my ability and giving me a chance to manage this fantastic club.
“I leave this organisation, a better coach, a better person and I feel prepared for the next chapter of my career, KT.”
