Blue Eagles’ return to the TNM Super League has been blurred by the uncertainty surrounding the future of Head Coach Eliya Kananji, whose contract expires on January 31.
As that is not enough the team also owes players game bonuses after successfully winning Chipuku Stores Central Region Football Association Premier Division championship with 60 points having won 19 games and drawn three.
Kananji, speaking at Nankhaka Stadium in Lilongwe on Sunday, soon after guiding Eagles to a 1-0 over Leyman Panthers, said he was not sure if he would continue coaching the club.
“So far management has not said anything about my contract. By now we should have started planning for life in the elite league,” the former FCB Nyasa Big Bullets and Mighty Mukuru Wanderers coach said.
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The development came after reports emerged that the team was owing players outstanding game bonuses for the entire season.
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Malawi Police Services Deputy Inspector General Responsible for Administration Happy Mkandawire said the issue should not be blown out of proportion as management has been releasing funds.
“We might owe them money but certainly not for the entire season. I have been signing cheques for the team throughout the season,” Mkandawire said.
He commended the team for winning the league and advised them to work hard in the top flight league.
Eagles Chief Administration Officer Muhammad Ali downplayed the issue involving game bonuses.
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“Just like every institution and team we owe players outstanding game bonuses. In our case it is understandable because the team performed well beyond our budget.
“The team played 22 games in the league where they won 19 and drew three times. They also won all seven games in FDH Bank Cup and played three in Castel Challenge Cup. Our budget was overstretched. Everything is under control as our sponsors Malawi Police Services have been supportive throughout,” he said.
On issues regarding Kananji, Ali said a decision would be made later this week when both parties meet.
“Currently, Kananji is still our coach because his contract will expire on January 31,” he said.
