Justice Mugota has reportedly resigned as head coach of Marere FC with more than US$1,260 in outstanding winning bonuses and other unpaid dues, according to a source close to the coach.
Mugota took charge of Marere FC midway through the season and oversaw 13 matches, recording seven wins, three draws and three defeats. Despite the impressive run of results, the coach is understood to have gone without receiving the winning bonuses allegedly agreed with the club.
According to the source, Marere FC and Mugota had agreed on a US$180 winning bonus, but the coach had not received any of the bonuses during his tenure.
“They only give winning bonuses to the players, and not every game. If they want to give, they actually give, but if they don't want to, they remain silent,” the source said.
The coach is also understood to have left the club before receiving his September salary, with the source claiming that Mugota had only been paid for two months since joining Marere.
The payment dispute reportedly intensified following Marere’s 1-1 draw at Callies Stadium. The source said the coaching staff approached the club boss over their outstanding dues and were told they would receive payment after the team’s next home match.
However, when Marere returned home and the issue was raised again, the source alleges that the club boss drove away without addressing the matter.
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Mugota subsequently tendered his resignation on Wednesday evening following Marere’s home match against Banket FC.
In his resignation letter, Mugota wrote
“Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation as Head Coach of Marere FC, effective 30 September 2026. I appreciate the opportunity to have led the team and wish the club all the best in its future endeavors.”
The following day, the Marere FC executive reportedly held a meeting to discuss the situation and find a way forward. However, according to the source, Mugota was not contacted to give his final position on whether his resignation should be accepted.
Mugota’s departure could also trigger a wider change within the club’s technical department, with the entire tactical team reportedly set to leave alongside him.
The departing coach is already understood to have attracted interest from other clubs, with Batanai FC, Shamva FC and Rangers reportedly among those interested in securing his services.
Mugota’s next destination remains unclear, while questions remain over the reported US$1,260 owed and whether Marere FC will settle the outstanding amount with its departing coach.
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