Ndiraya’s Shock Exit at Scottland: Inside the Well-Planned Decision That Blindsided a Champion Coach
In a stunning twist at Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions Scottland FC, head coach Tonderai Ndiraya has been shown the door — just days after submitting his transfer wishlist and spearheading preparations for the club’s maiden CAF Champions League campaign.
Despite being deeply involved in next season’s squad planning, Ndiraya was informed on Wednesday morning that his contract — set to expire at the end of the season — would not be renewed. The news was delivered quietly, but within hours the club made the announcement public.
Ndiraya, affectionately known as Stanza, had been working closely with chairman Tonderai “Pound” Sakupwanya and CEO Ronald Moyo, driving recruitment strategy and building what he believed would be the next phase of Scottland’s ambitious project.
Only last week, he submitted a comprehensive list of targeted signings — a list the club had already approved.
But football’s ruthless side struck swiftly.
“We would like to confirm that the club and head coach, Tonderai Ndiraya, will part ways at the end of the current contract… We thank Coach Ndiraya for his remarkable achievements,”
read the club’s official statement.
According to a source close to the situation, Ndiraya never saw it coming.
“The coach was preparing for the new season. He had already handed over his wishlist. Everyone knew he was planning long-term,”
the insider said.
“We were all shocked when leadership suddenly decided not to renew his contract — but that’s football. He now has to move on.”
Ndiraya leaves Scottland after guiding the club to a historic PSL title in their debut topflight season — an achievement that made him one of the hottest coaching properties in the country.
But despite the success and alignment with management, Scottland’s leadership appear intent on a new direction as they prepare for Africa’s biggest stage.
Ndiraya’s next move will now be one of the most closely watched stories in Zimbabwean football.