Uganda Premier League Champions, SC Villa over the weekend announced they had ‘mutually’ agreed to part ways with head coach Dusan Stojanovic after just one season in which he led the club to a historic league title.
The decision, confirmed on Saturday, July 27, sent shockwaves through the football fraternity and raised questions about the club’s future.
“Sports Club Villa has today mutually parted ways with its Head Coach Dusan Stojanovic,” the statement read in part, adding; “Dusan leaves with our sincerest appreciation for steering the Club through a very tough season to its 17th League Champions.”
Stojanovic’s tenure at SC Villa was marked by incredible success, culminating in the club’s record-extending 16th league title last season.
The championship ended a 20-year drought for the storied club and cemented Stojanovic’s place in SC Villa’s history books.
However, the off-season has been tumultuous for Villa. The loss of key players, including captain Kenneth Ssemakula, and a disappointing group-stage exit in the CECAFA Club Championship, have compounded the challenges faced by Stojanovic. Despite his efforts, the coach was unable to overcome these setbacks, ultimately leading to his departure.
Insider reports suggest that Stojanovic’s exit was influenced by unmet demands, including requests for player transfers and improved training facilities.
The club’s inability to meet these demands reportedly strained the relationship between the coach and management, culminating in his sacking.
In the meantime, SC Villa has appointed Stojanovic’s former assistant, Morley Byekwaso, a familiar face within the club, as interim head coach who will be tasked with stabilizing the team and preparing them for the upcoming season.
