Former Mochudi Centre Chiefs coach, Philani Mabhena remains optimistic that he will get paid his dues despite the delay as Magosi find themselves under serious financial difficulties.
Mabhena reported Chiefs to FIFA and won the case followed by an instruction by the world football body that Chiefs pay him.
Mabhena in an interview with Sunday Standard Sport was adamant that his legal team will hit a break through and the matter will become history.
Asked if he has been paid since the deadline that was mandated by FIFA had elapsed, he answered: “As after the deadline, I have not got any further development from Chiefs and my lawyers have not said anything as yet” explained the disappointed Mabhena.
Mabhena could not tell whether or not the team has made any payment plan to settle the debt.
“If there is any arrangement, they are dealing with my lawyers who are yet to furnish me with any development.” The Zimbabwean mentor could not predict the way forward since he has not met his legal team, “I am not sure what steps will be taken I am waiting to hear from my legal team hoping soon we put a close to this sad chapter,” he said.
Mabhena further explained that he has not been in contact with Chiefs since the matter is handled by his legal team.
Chiefs spokesperson, Pollen Makgane isn’t sure if the former coach will be paid by the end of the month.
“We are still looking for money to settle the debt. There is somewhere where we are expecting money from and we hope the promise will be fulfilled so that by the end of January we pay and close the matter” said Makgane. He said the contribution they have asked from the general team membership came to a mere P22 000.
Makgane said the team is in contact with the Botswana Football Association (BFA)on the steps they are taking towards settling the debt. BFA mouthpiece, Tumo Mpatane, said the BFA will await guidance from FIFA on the way forward.
“As an association we will follow FIFA’s guidance on the matter. We will comply with the entire guidance. We have done it before and if there is going to be another guidance, we will comply with it” explained Mpatane.
If Chiefs fail to pay Mabhena, FIFA may deduct the same amount the team owes from BFA annual grant and pay the coach.
Mabhena was employed by MCC on the 23rd July 2018 and submitted a claim from non-payment of FIFA for the amount of P121, 100.00. MCC submitted its defence and FIFA awarded Mabhena P116, 655.00 which was supposed to be paid on or before the 10th December 2020.
