Breaking the mold: AmaZulu appoint ex-Real Madrid assistant Pablo Franco Martin as new head coach

In a thrilling announcement on Tuesday that has sent waves of excitement throughout the South African football fraternity, DStv Premiership outfit AmaZulu confirmed former Real Madrid assistant Pablo Franco Martin as their new head coach.

The 43-year-old Martin has inked a remarkable three-year deal, catapulting the Spanish tactician into the limelight of South African football until the end of the 2025/26 season.

Prior to the appointment of Martin, a number of coaches were rumored to be in the running for the position. Luc Eymeal and Alfons Groenendijk emerged as strong contenders, capturing the attention of fans and generating speculation about who would ultimately take charge.

The vacancy arose when Ayanda Dlamini was relieved of his duties towards the conclusion of the previous season, adding an element of urgency to club's search for a new head coach.

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AmaZulu president Sandile Zungu shed light on the extensive process that led to the selection of Martin. 

"We have diligently interviewed numerous candidates who expressed keen interest in leading AmaZulu Football Club," Zungu, who acquired full control of the club in October 2020, said in a statement released.

"These prospective coaches encompassed a diverse range, from local talents associated with teams in the DSTV Premiership, to former coaches of the DSTV Premiership itself.

"Some hailed from African nations and competed in esteemed continental tournaments such as the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederations Cup.

"Additionally, we considered coaches who had ventured into international