The debate on who should win the Coach of the Season in the PSL has continued, as Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates legend Benson Mhlongo has revealed his choice.
The 2024/25 PSL awards ceremony, usually held in the month of June, has been postponed by the League, to show support to Sundowns who are currently participating in the FIFA Club World Cup.
READ | 'Real test' awaits Sundowns at CWC crossroads
One of the biggest talking points is who deserves the Coach of the Season accolade, traditionally given to mentors who have won the league.
Strong contenders include therefore Masandawana coach Miguel Cardoso, even though there has been reservations raised that he joined The Brazilians with the season already underway, after he replaced former coach Manqoba Mngqithi in December last year.
Former Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is also among the contenders, having made a big strides to challenge Masandawana almost until towards the end of the season, in his third campaign.
However, there is little said about coaches such as Steve Barker, who qualified Stellenbosch for the CAF Confederation Cup for a second season in a row after a third place finish in the Betway Premiership.
Stellies also reached the semi-finals of the CAF Confederation Cup.
"Stellenbosch coach, he challenged everyone, he did well in Africa with unknown players and competed the whole season," Mhlongo told KickOff.com on who his pick is for Coach of the Season award.
"For me he's the coach of the season. He did well. Sundowns coach didn't start the season, he found the train on it's right track.
"For me it's either Riveiro or the Stellenbosch coach who deserve coach of the season (award). Sundowns coach just came in now, let's look at him next season," Mhlongo added.
Barker has also shown adaptability and an eye for talent, as he maintained a third place finish despite losing quality players such as Iqraam Rayners, Deano Van Rooyen and Jayden Adams in the same campaign.
