Mass exodus rocks Popa - amid deepening financial turmoil
FNB Premiership giants, Township Rollers are staring at one of the darkest chapters in their celebrated history as a wave of player departures exposes deep-rooted financial turmoil within the club.
Once synonymous with stability, dominance and professionalism, the Blue Train now appears to be derailing amid unresolved financial bickering that has shaken both the dressing room and the terraces.
Confirmed information reaching this publication indicates that experienced campaigners, Mothusi Cooper and Godfrey Tauyatswala have already parted ways with the club. Their exits are understood to be directly linked to ongoing financial disagreements, with players growing weary of delayed payments and uncertainty surrounding contractual obligations. The departures have sent shockwaves through the local football fraternity, given the stature of the two players and their contribution to the club over the years.
The situation at Rollers appears to be deteriorating rapidly. Sources close to the club have further revealed that Omphile Vissage, Thatayaone Ramatlapeng and captain Mosha Gaolaolwe are also on the verge of dumping the Gaborone outfit in search for greener pastures. While no official announcements have been made regarding their futures, insiders suggest that talks are at an advanced stage and that the duo may soon follow their teammates out of the club if the financial impasse remains unresolved. Losing both Cooper and Vissage at the heart of midfield will be detrimental for Popa as they might lose their identity given that Mosha Gaolwalwe also gave them stability in defense.
According to sources, the mood within the Rollers camp has been tense for weeks, with frustration mounting among players who feel left in the dark regarding the club’s financial direction. Promises of payments and resolutions are said to have been made repeatedly, only for deadlines to pass without tangible action. This has reportedly eroded trust between players and management, creating an environment that many now view as untenable.
The mass exodus threatens to seriously undermine Township Rollers’ competitiveness this season. Losing experienced and influential players not only weakens the team on the pitch but also strips the squad of leadership at a time when unity and stability are desperately needed. Supporters, long accustomed to success and silverware, have taken to social media to voice their concern and disappointment, calling on the club’s leadership to act decisively before irreparable damage is done.
Efforts to obtain official comment from the club Chairman, Obel Mosekiemang have so far proved futile, as his phone rang unanswered and eventually went to voicemail. The silence from the club’s top leadership has only fueled speculation and anxiety among fans and stakeholders.
Township Rollers have built a legacy as one of Botswana’s most successful and respected football institutions. However, the current crisis presents a defining moment for the club. Unless urgent steps are taken to resolve the financial bickering and restore confidence among players and supporters, the ongoing exodus could deepen, threatening not only the current season but the long-term stability of the club.