MBABANE – Manzini Wanderers players were reportedly locked out of their clubhouse on Thursday due to alleged unpaid rent.
A source close to the matter alleged that the landlord informed the players that he was shutting them out because of outstanding fees for the clubhouse, which the club rents for about E10 000 monthly. One player, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the situation left the squad shaken.
“It’s bad. The landlord told us on Thursday that he was locking us out due to unpaid rent, but after negotiating with him, he allowed us to sleep on Thursday,” the player said.
The source said yesterday morning, the landlord told the players to leave because he had not received the rent, and they were forced to move out of the clubhouse.
There were also reports that players had been struggling with food supplies, forcing supporters to step in. A message circulating in the team’s supporters’ group thanked fans for contributing food towards the welfare of the squad, highlighting how strained the club’s resources have become.
Manzini Wanderers have been engulfed in leadership challenges recently, following the resignation of former Director Mlamuli Mabuza. The club has since appointed former player and legend Mbazo Gamedze as the new Director of Operations, hoping to stabilise the team both on and off the field.
On the pitch, the hub giants have endured a difficult start to the season. They sit second from bottom in the 16-team league after seven games, having suffered a heavy 4–1 defeat to newly-promoted Tabankulu Celtics last weekend. So far, Wanderers have lost four matches, drawn twice, won once and recently hired Coach Gcina Dlamini in an attempt to turn their fortunes around.
Responding to the situation, Wanderers Public Relations Officer (PRO) Mongi Simelane urged supporters to understand the broader context the club is operating under this season.
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Manzini Wanderers' Mayibongwe Sacolo battles for the ball with Tabankulu Celtics' Lebogang Mabalane. Wanderers players have been reported locked out of the clubhouse.