Former Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane still UNPAID at Esteghlal - 'It'll be unfortunate if we have to terminate because of non-payment'

Esteghlal did not have a good start to the 2024/25 season which invited changes in the technical team.

Pitso Mosimane, who by the time was a free agent after parting ways with Abha, was appointed to take over.

The former Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns tactician officially started in mid-October, 2024.

After struggling to deliver, 'Jingles' has eventually settled.

The South African is currently on a nine-match unbeaten streak across all competitions.

On Monday, a win against Shams Azar Qazvin might take Esteghlal to the top half of the Persian Gulf Pro League table

Despite the good run, Mosimane and his technical staff have not been paid as confirmed by MT Sports Managing Director Moira Tlhagale.

"Up to now the coaches have still not been paid, yesterday was Wednesday, I think it was day 15 according to the FIFA law where you give a team 15 days to pay or you've got the right to terminate,” she told SABC Sport.

“I have spoken to the coaches yesterday and the decision for now is not yet to terminate, to give them more time because if you are aware the old CEO who was there when we arrived, the gentleman that I negotiated with has now moved on.

"Why they have not being paid? I actually don't have an answer for that. I think it's an answer that we are also looking for, to understand why there has not been payment but I think coach Pitso has done tremendously well,” she added.

“He is, if I'm not mistaken running nine games without a loss. He has as we all know as a strategist who is a turnaround football strategist, has done exactly that. I believe he will be able to turn the team around," she continued.

"It will be unfortunate if we have to terminate because of non-payment because the reality is I cannot have my coaches there and not being paid."

It is obvious Mosimane and his staff want to stay in the Gulf and help Esteghlal get back to their best.

However, the club's management must also play its role and settle the accumulating debt.