Da Gama was escorted off the field under the watchful eyes of both Pirates’ security and police following the 1-0 Absa Premiership defeat to Platinum Stars on Wednesday,.
But although Pirates officials refuse to admit that there is a crisis at the club, snl24.com/kickoff has learnt that some players in the team are no longer interested in playing under Da Gama, especially those linked to CEO Floyd Mbele’s camp.
Zimbabwean striker Gilbert Mushangazikhe, whose arrival at Bucs sparked controversy when he was signed without consent of the coach, is also said to be one of the players who have showed a lack of commitment in recent games because of being not on good terms with Da Gama.
“There are a lot of problems in the team. Mbele and Da Gama are not on good terms and the result is that some players that were brought by Mbele to Pirates are the most affected by this relationship. They now find themselves watching the game on the stands,” said one player who did not want to be named.
“The other issue is that of assistant coach, which has failed to be addressed for quite some time. Pirates brought a guy from Cameroon to assist Da Gama. He is still in country, but Owen wants his own choice.
“It’s a disgrace if John Williams, the club physio, has to pass orders onto the field. He is not even a member of the technical team.
“Mushangazikhe was furious when he was substituted against Stars and his relationship with the coach has never been good. At least, during games, Mushangazikhe tries to show commitment, but at training it’s a different story,” the source told snl24.com/kickoff.
