Former Kaizer Chiefs star Willard Katsande has stepped down as head coach of Zimbabwean side Rangers Football Club , ending his first coaching role just two months after taking charge.
The club, previously known as Chinhoyi Rangers, competes in the Northern Region Division One League in Zimbabwe and is based in Chinhoyi.
The club officially unveiled Katsande in early March.
Katsande’s early promise in coaching career
The former Zimbabwe international midfielder took over the team ahead of the Northern Region Soccer League campaign and oversaw seven matches.
His appointment marked an important step in his shift from playing to coaching, with many expecting his experience to inspire the squad and stabilise the club.
Katsande’s appointment became his first coaching job in Zimbabwe since he obtained his Confederation of African Football (CAF) coaching badge in mid-2025.
The former midfield enforcer completed the course alongside fellow ex-Warriors captain Tapuwa Kapini.
While this was his first time leading a professional club, Katsande has been preparing for the role through other football projects.
Challenges behind the scenes
As reported by Soccer24 Zimbabwe, Katsande cut his tenure short after submitting his resignation, pointing to several challenges that made it difficult for him to continue.
In his resignation letter, he raised concerns over unpaid wages, saying the club had not honoured his agreed salary since his arrival.
He also cited poor living conditions, which added to the difficulties he faced off the pitch.
Mixed results on the pitch
On the field, Katsande recorded one win, four draws and two defeats during his time in charge.
Those results left Rangers struggling near the bottom of the table, sitting 18th and just one place above the relegation zone.
His departure brings an abrupt end to what had been expected to be a promising start to his coaching journey.
Experience beyond playing career
The former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder has been running his football academy, Kitoko Soccer School, where he mentors and develops young talent.
He also previously served as part of the technical team at South African fourth-division side Crystal Lake FC.
In addition, Katsande held an ambassadorial role at Sekhukhune United F.C., another club he played for during his career in South Africa.
Katsande built a strong reputation during his playing days, especially during his successful spell at Kaizer Chiefs where he became a fan favourite and one of the club’s most influential midfielders.
His appointment at Rangers FCopened a new chapter as he began his journey on the touchline, with the Division One side hoping his experience and leadership could help push the club forward.
