As the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season approaches, attention is firmly fixed not only on the players, but also on a wave of significant coaching changes that could reshape the direction of several clubs. New faces on the touchline bring fresh ideas, renewed pressure and, in some cases, bold ambition.
FC Platinum have turned to Joel Lupahla, handing him a one-year contract after his stint with Simba Bhora. Expectations will be high as the former winger looks to steady the platinum miners and restore their consistency after a mixed campaign.
Perhaps the most eye-catching move sees Norman Mapeza take charge at Scottland FC. The decision stunned many, especially after Tonderayi Ndiraya delivered the 2025 league title. With Scottland also preparing for CAF Champions League football, the club appears to have opted for continental experience. The pressure on Mapeza will be immediate and intense.
Newcomers Hardrock FC have entrusted Kelvin Kaindu with leading their debut top-flight season. After engineering an unlikely relegation escape with Dynamos, the Zambian tactician’s stock rose sharply. How he manages expectation, squad depth and top-flight realities will be one of the season’s biggest subplots.
At Simba Bhora, Mandla Mpofu steps in following Lupahla’s departure. With several key players gone, Mpofu faces a rebuilding job that could define the club’s short-term future.
Chicken Inn have secured Tonderayi Ndiraya, officially completing the move in December. The former Scottland boss now chases a remarkable milestone: a potential third PSL title with a third different club, and possibly three league titles in succession.
CAPS United have gone with Takesure Chiragwi, offering him a fresh start after his exit from Ngezi Platinum, while Highlanders usher in a new era under Senong. He arrives as Pieter de Jong departs, and does so in a symbolic year as Bosso celebrate their centenary, bringing heightened expectation.
Meanwhile, Ngezi Platinum have added Clifford Dzvairo as assistant coach after he guided FC Hunters into the PSL. His move has sparked speculation about deeper structural changes behind the scenes.
With so many tactical minds reshuffling, the 2026 season promises intrigue, pressure and opportunity. Whether these changes ignite title charges, steady long-term projects or deliver surprise runs remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the dugouts will be just as compelling as the action on the pitch.
