Former Zambian international goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene was reportedly appointed as Mamelodi Sundowns’ assistant goalkeeper coach two weeks ago.
The 38-year-old shot-stopper took on the role of interim goalkeeper coach for the Brazilians following the suspension of Wendell Robinson.
He took up the role during Sundowns’ 0-1 win over Orlando Pirates on February 4, 2023, in the DSTV Premiership.
Though it appeared to be a new role for Mweene, he says he just stepped in for the suspended coach.
“I came in because coach Wendell was suspended; he had a red card, so I was asked to help, which I did,” said Mweene. “I think it wasn’t too difficult because it was familiar faces and people who we speak to every now and then. There was nothing hectic to do. It was business as usual.”
Mweene also revealed plans to pursue coaching in the near future as he prepares to retire from playing football.
“Like any other football player, I think I have always wanted to be a goalkeeper coach. Not only in South Africa but in my country (Zambia).”
“Most of us goalkeepers, when we retire, want to be head coaches and assistant coaches, forgetting that we have a lot of experience to give to the young and upcoming goalkeepers.
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“So it’s very important that towards the end of our career, we do coaching courses so that we don’t cry the same that there are no goalkeepers in the Country. It’s something that I will always consider once I retire, but at the moment, I’m still a player,” he concluded.
Mweene has began his coaching career
Meanwhile, Sundowns coach Rulan Mokwena disclosed to SABC that Mweene has began his coaching career at the club and doubling up into a role that they envisage for him in the long term.
“Yes, he’s [Mweene] doubling up into a role that we envisage for him in the long-term for sure,” said Mokwena.
“He’s going to be doing his coaching badges very soon, he’s just applied for that. And it’s only that natural progression in life when you move from playing and have a keen interest in coaching.”
