South African coach Pitso Mosimane has officially parted ways with Iranian club Esteghlal FC due to unresolved salary disputes affecting him and his technical team. The decision, made with immediate effect, follows extensive but unsuccessful efforts to resolve the issue.
MT Sports Marketing & Management, representing Mosimane, said it engaged with Esteghlal FC’s management, including discussions with the former CEO last year and a formal default notice sent on 1 January 2025. Despite these efforts, the club failed to settle outstanding payments.
“In accordance with Fifa regulations, Mosimane and his team granted a 15-day grace period to the club’s new CEO and board to address the matter. However, Esteghlal FC did not meet the deadlines they had set, and Mosimane, along with his staff, remain unpaid for over two months.
"Despite these financial challenges, Mosimane expressed appreciation for the Esteghlal players, whose dedication made his tenure rewarding. He highlighted their AFC Champions League qualification, including a notable clash against Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli FC, a club he previously led back to the Saudi Pro League," said MT Sports in a statement.
Under Mosimane’s guidance, Esteghlal FC are currently 11th in the Persian Gulf Pro League, having lost only three out of 10 league matches. The team have also progressed to the next round of the Iranian Cup.
Mosimane also acknowledged the passionate Esteghlal supporters and credited his technical staff - Maahier Davids, Musi Matlaba, Kabelo Rangoaga, and Kyle Solomon - for their contributions.
While steps will be taken to resolve the financial dispute, Mosimane remains committed to football excellence and looks forward to new coaching opportunities.