Pitso Mosimane Joins Esteghlal - Why The Coach Joined Iranian Giants

John Eastwood

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Last updated: 19 Oct 2024

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John Eastwood 19 Oct 2024

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Pitso Mosimane signed with Esteghlal FC for a one-year contract.
Mosimane brings four trusted South African staff members.
Esteghlal FC has a rich history, with 38 trophies, including two Asian Champions League wins.

Decorated South African coach Pitso Mosimane has joined Esteghlal as their new coach (Getty Images).

“Jingles” Lands His Next Job

Three-time CAF Champions League winner as coach Pitso Mosimane has signed a contract for his latest job. The former Mamelodi Sundowns and South African national team mentor has agreed a reported one-year contract with Persian Gulf Pro League club, Esteghlal FC.
“Jingles” Lands His Next Job
Mosimane’s Trusted Staff to Join Him
Why the Coach Took the Job – In His Own Words
Esteghlal FC’s Rich History

His new club sit 11th in the league after seven matches and will expect the decorated South African coach to change their fortunes. Mosimane will compete in the Asian Champions League where he will face his former club in Saudi giants Al Ahli.

Mosimane’s Trusted Staff to Join Him

As is usually a condition of taking any new job, Pitso Mosimane has secured four South African technical staff members to join him.

They include UEFA-A Licenced assistant coach Maahier Davids, Strength and Conditioning Coach Kabelo Rangoaga and two performance analysts in Kyle Solomon and Musi Matlaba.

Why the Coach Took the Job – In His Own Words

After six months of unemployment since leaving Saudi club Abha, Pitso Mosimane was selected of his next job.

He issued a statement via his agency about why he took the Esteghlal job:

“Esteghlal F.C. is a very big club in the Gulf region, with a long and illustrious history. The two Asian Champions League stars on top of their badge tell you what kind of club this is.

“Their last trophy was won in 2022, and we can believe their fans are hungry for glory once again.

"The challenge that awaits us is steep, but it is our privilege to lead such a prolific club. I would like to thank the club leadership for placing their trust in us. We are ready to get to work.”

Esteghlal FC’s Rich History

The Iranian giants have won 38 trophies in their history including lifting the league crown on nine occasions. They won the 2021/22 Persian Gulf Pro League season without losing a single match, the first club ever to do that.

The club has also twice won the Asian Champions League. No other Iranian club has ever won it more than once.

Pitso Mosimane had been linked with moves to Raja Casablanca and Kaizer Chiefs over the last six months but seemingly wanted to remain in the Middle East.