Sports

Zakhem denies dictatorship claims

REIGNING CHAMPIONS...Zakhem built a formidable team once he took over at GU
 
REIGNING CHAMPIONS...Zakhem built a formidable team once he took over at GU



Gaborone United Director and successful businessperson Nicolas Zakhem has recently been the subject of some allegation regarding his management style within the reigning 2022/23 Botswana Football League champions' camp.

According to a source within the Red circles this week, after a disappointing loss to the unpredictable rookies Eleven Angels last month in Francistown, Zakhem may have let his frustration get the best of him. The source claims that some choice words may have been used, resulting in a few suspensions within the Reds communication team. Speaking to BG Sport in a brief interview, GU boss Zakhem said, none of these allegations has truth in it. “All of these claims are a smearing campaign to derail our team from reclaiming the title, in the meantime, we shall find out these culprits and who’s behind them, trying to damage our reputation and success on and off the field,” he said.

He clarified that GU has structures in place and he doesn’t communicate directly to the alleged communications team, stating that if there’s any kind of communication, he talks to Herbert Letsebe who is the head of the communication department. Zakhem said so far, he is satisfied with how the communications department has been working withing the club. “Our communication team has done a great job, and I’m very happy with the whole set up and individuals involved, and I here challenge all team to follow suite,” he added.

Furthermore, he said that as for the players he never addresses them after any game whether its a win, a draw or a loss. Zakhem said he usually addresses them (players) before a crucial game to give them encouragement and incentive to go play well and win. “Our players have done us proud, and their records speak volumes and my relationship with all our players is top notch and it’s a father to children relationship. I wish every team can have such fruitful relationship to add dimensions to our game,” Zakhem said.

He said that their team’s success is the envy of every team, both on and off the pitch and therefore all these allegations are based on hate and jealousy. Meanwhile Gaborone United is currently on the 2 place in the Botswana Football League (BFL) table behind the league contenders, Jwaneng Galaxy. They are left with 8 games against Masitaoka, Prisons, Nico United, Sua Flamingoes, Mogoditshane Fighters, Township Rollers, BDF XI and Police XI.