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Rabat – The Bloemfontein-based Premier Soccer League side Marumo Gallants have officially confirmed the appointment of Moroccan coach Jamil Benouahi as their new head coach, marking another change in the South African club’s technical leadership during a difficult season.
The decision follows the departure of French coach Alexandre Lafitte, who was dismissed after a series of poor results left the team hovering just above the relegation zone. Lafitte had also been suspended since early March for failing to meet club obligations, despite leading the team to the Carling Knockout Cup final last year, where they lost to Orlando Pirates.
“Marumo Gallants F.C. has appointed Jamil Benouahi as the club’s new head coach, following the recent parting of ways with former head coach Alexandre Lafitte,” the club announced in an official statement on Tuesday.
Who is Jamil Benouahi?
Born in Fez, Benouahi holds a UEFA Pro Licence and brings extensive international coaching experience. His career includes stints across North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Gulf region, where he developed a reputation for tactical flexibility and a structured approach to the game.
He most recently coached Rahimo FC in Burkina Faso and previously worked as an assistant coach to French manager Hubert Velud during his time at the Rabat-based AS FAR.
Benouahi will be supported by assistant coaches Julien Outrebon and Trevor Mathiane, who had been serving as interim co-caretakers following Lafitte’s suspension. The club hopes this technical continuity will help stabilize performances during a critical phase of the campaign.
“Benouahi’s expertise, leadership, and fresh perspective will contribute positively to the team’s performance,” the club added in its statement, expressing confidence in his ability to steer the team away from relegation danger.
Appointment context
The appointment makes Benouahi the fifth head coach since the club relocated to Bloemfontein ahead of the 2024/25 season, underlining a turbulent period for the South African side.
It is understood that the Moroccan tactician has signed a contract until the end of the season, with an option to extend. His immediate objective will be to secure the club’s top-flight status in the South African Premier Division.
Marumo Gallants had previously been coached by another Moroccan, Abdeslam Ouaddou, highlighting the growing presence of Moroccan coaches in African football.
