TS Galaxy coach Mtsweni insists Mahlambi is focused amid struggles

TS Galaxy interim coach Esau Mtsweni says Seluleko Mahlambi is focused on the club despite a goal drought, with Galaxy sitting just two points above the Premier Soccer League relegation places.

TS Galaxy interim coach Esau Mtsweni has moved to quell concerns over winger Seluleko Mahlambi's form and focus, insisting the player is fully committed to the club's cause. Mahlambi has yet to register a goal or an assist in eight appearances across all competitions this season, a stark contrast to his six goals and six assists in six games last term. The team's struggles are reflected in their league standing of 12th in the Premier Soccer League on just 7 points from 9 games, with a record of one win, four draws and four losses.

Mtsweni directly addressed suggestions that ongoing transfer talk has affected the 22-year-old's performances. "As far as I know, Mahlambi is okay," the coach said. "He is focused, and he wants to be here. He’s always giving his best." The club's leadership has echoed this stance, with chair Tim Sukazi confirming on radio that he rejected a R4 million offer from Kaizer Chiefs for the player. Mtsweni added that Mahlambi's attitude in training remains positive and that the technical team is working closely with him to regain his confidence and sharpness in front of goal.

Galaxy's precarious position

The public backing for a key attacker comes at a critical time for the Rockets. The team has managed just one win in ten league matches this campaign and sits 12th in the Premier Soccer League with only seven points from nine games. Their recent form reads DLLLD, leaving them a mere two points above the relegation zone. They have scored seven goals while conceding twelve, a deficit that underlines their struggles and leaves them with a negative five goal difference. The club is also a significant 19 points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns in the title race.

Mahlambi, often described as the team's heartbeat, will be central to any revival. The club's next opportunity to climb the standings comes in an away fixture against Stellenbosch on Saturday 27 November. That match kicks off a key period for a squad needing to find consistency and points quickly. The team's top scorer this season is V. Letsoalo with four goals in nine appearances, a contribution the team desperately needs to supplement.

Galaxy's last outing was a goalless draw away to Polokwane City on Saturday 31 October, which followed heavy 3-0 defeats to both Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. Their recent form over the last three games shows zero wins, one draw and two defeats. Turning those performances around will require the entire squad, with Mahlambi's talent a potential catalyst. The club faces Stellenbosch, currently eighth, later this month in a match that could define their early-season trajectory. Mtsweni emphasized the need for collective responsibility, stating that while individuals like Mahlambi are important, the solution to their league position lies in a unified team effort and improved defensive organization.