By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Scottland Football Club faithful barely had time to celebrate a historic championship before being thrown into the heart of a new debate: who will lead the champions next?
Scottland Football Club officially confirmed on Wednesday, that head coach Tonderai Ndiraya will part ways with the club following the expiry of his contract at the end of the 2025 season a decision taken by mutual agreement.
Ndiraya exits on the highest possible note after guiding Scottland to a historic Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title in the club’s debut top-flight season.
The triumph also secured the club a coveted ticket into the CAF Champions League, marking one of the most remarkable breakthroughs in Zimbabwean football history.
In its farewell statement, Scottland paid glowing tribute to the departing coach:
“We express our sincere appreciation for his commitment, professionalism and service. His contribution to the growth and development of our players has been highly valued. He led Scottland to a historic league title in our debut Premiership season, earning us a ticket into the CAF Champions League. We wish him every success in his future endeavours,” read part of Statement.
Ndiraya had joined Scottland after delivering a fairytale league title with Simba Bhora in 2024, replacing Genesis Mangombe, the man who masterminded the club’s promotion from the ZIFA Northern Region.
No sooner had the announcement dropped than social media erupted with speculation and one name dominated the conversation: Norman Mapeza.
Fresh off his exit from FC Platinum, the four-time league-winning coach is being tipped by supporters as the perfect successor, praised for his tactical discipline, big-match temperament and proven winning pedigree.
Some fan reactions lighting up timelines include:
“I finally understand why Mapeza left Platinum. The move was already written.” — Tanaka Dirani
“I bet Mapeza is coming to Scottland,” another added.
“Norman Mapeza might be the next coach,” stated another fan in a comment.
While Scottland are yet to officially announce a replacement, the growing fan momentum suggests that Mapeza is emerging as the early front-runner.
If the move materialises, it would set up one of the most intriguing coaching chapters in recent Premier Soccer League history.