Royal bring back Maduka amid relegation concerns

In a major shake-up, Royal AM have appointed former coach John Maduka as the new head coach in their fight to avoid slipping into the dreaded DStv Premiership relegation battle.

The club made the announcement on their social media platforms on Thursday, simply stating, "Welcome back coach Maduka".

However, details of Maduka's new contract, including its length and the fate of coaches Abram Nteo and Khabo Zondo, remain unclear.

Despite unconfirmed reports suggesting Zondo is no longer with the club, AM have insisted he is still part of the team.

Maduka previously led the club to a third-place finish in their debut season before parting ways due to an impasse in contract negotiations.

He was then replaced by Zondo, who was later demoted from head coach as the club management brought in two additional co-coaches, Nteo and Dan Malesela.

Malesela has since left Royal and rejoined his former club Marumo Gallants, where he too has been sidelined on "special leave" while Dylan Kerr takes a "consultant" role to try and get them off the foot of the table.

Royal AM are currently sitting in 12th place in the Premiership with 21 points – six points above the automatic relegation spot and just three above the play-off spot – after 18 matches.

With Maduka's return, the club is hoping to turn their fortunes around and secure their place in the top tier.