Highlanders Football Club has confirmed the departure of Head Coach Pieter De Jongh, marking the end of a tenure that the Bulawayo giants describe as impactful, professional, and mutually beneficial. The announcement, made through an official press statement dated 29 November 2025, brings clarity to weeks of speculation surrounding the coach’s future as the club moves toward the close of the 2025 season.
In the statement, Highlanders revealed that De Jongh’s contract—set to expire on 31 December 2025—will not be renewed. The club said this decision came after what it termed constructive discussions, resulting in a mutual agreement between the two parties to part ways at the end of the year. Highlanders emphasised that the separation is amicable, with no underlying conflict or dissatisfaction between management and the coach.
The club expressed sincere gratitude for the professionalism and commitment De Jongh displayed throughout his tenure. Appointed during a period of rebuilding and uncertainty, the Dutch coach brought with him a wealth of experience, tactical acumen, and a deliberate approach to stabilising the team. Highlanders acknowledged that his leadership played a meaningful role in strengthening squad discipline, improving performance levels, and fostering a competitive spirit among the players.
According to the club, De Jongh worked tirelessly to elevate the team’s standards, both on the pitch and within the broader technical setup. His hands-on coaching style, strong work ethic, and ability to motivate players were praised as central to the progress seen in various segments of the season. Even though results were mixed at certain points, the overall consensus from within the club hierarchy is that De Jongh made a positive and lasting contribution.
Highlanders Confirm Departure of Head Coach Pieter De Jongh as Club Prepares for New Era
The statement went further to highlight De Jongh’s impeccable conduct off the field. His interaction with fans, open communication with club officials, and willingness to mentor younger players were singled out as qualities that endeared him to the Highlanders community. For many supporters, his passion for the game and respect for Bosso’s rich heritage made him a respected figure, even during challenging phases of the campaign.
Despite these contributions, Highlanders made it clear that after extensive internal reviews and forward-looking assessments, the club felt the time had come to embark on a fresh direction. Parting with De Jongh, the statement noted, should be viewed as a strategic decision geared towards positioning the team for the demands of the 2026 season and beyond.
The club extended its warm wishes to the outgoing coach, expressing confidence that he will continue to excel in his future coaching endeavours. “Highlanders Football Club wishes Coach De Jongh the very best as he embarks on the next chapter of his coaching career,” reads part of the statement. The club also expressed hope that his time in Zimbabwe will remain a memorable part of his professional journey.
The announcement now shifts attention to what comes next for Highlanders. With the 2026 season on the horizon, the club is entering a critical phase of planning. Highlanders reassured supporters that updates regarding the new technical setup will be released once all internal processes have been completed. For now, the club is taking a measured approach, seeking a coach who aligns with its vision, values, and long-term developmental goals.
Supporters have been encouraged to remain patient and united as the club navigates this transition. Highlanders’ leadership acknowledges the high expectations surrounding the appointment of a new head coach, especially given the club’s ambitions to strengthen its competitive edge in domestic football and to mount stronger challenges in regional tournaments.
As Bosso prepares for a new chapter, football analysts note that the club’s next steps will likely determine its trajectory for years to come. The selection of a new coach, the restructuring of the technical bench, and the strategic planning already underway are expected to define the team’s identity heading into 2026.
For now, Highlanders have chosen to honour a coach who, despite his relatively short stay, leaves with the respect of the club and its supporters. De Jongh’s departure signals both the end of a chapter and the beginning of another—one filled with anticipation, renewed ambition, and an eagerness to build on the foundation he helped strengthen.
Source- iHarare
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