WINDHOEK — Ronny Kanalelo has resigned from his position as the assistant coach of Namibia’s national football team, the Brave Warriors, a role he has held since 2018. His resignation comes amidst public disagreements with the Namibia Football Association’s (NFA) president, marking the end of an era that included notable successes in regional and continental football competitions.

According to Namibia Press Agency, dated July 6, 2024, he decided to step down following the 2024 COSAFA Cup. Kanalelo's tenure included significant achievements such as winning the COSAFA Cup and securing qualifications for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the African Nations Cup on three occasions. He initially joined the coaching staff in 2013 under then-head coach Ricardo Mannetti and remained through the 2019 African Nations Cup in Egypt.

The resignation appears to stem from perceived lack of support and recent statements by Shimooshili, suggesting a need for changes within the team's coaching ranks. In his letter, Kanalelo expressed dissatisfaction with Shimooshili's media comments, which he felt undermined his contributions and qualifications. "I feel the need to inform you that, despite your assumptions, based on your utterances in the media, I did not force myself into any of the positions I served for the national team. They were all based on merit and on my qualifications, contribution, and my willingness to serve this country," Kanalelo stated.

Shimooshili recently articulated a vision for personnel changes across all levels of national teams, emphasizing the need for rotation to allow more Namibians the opportunity to contribute. In response, Kanalelo rejected the notion that he has overstayed his welcome, citing concerns about the potential damage to his professional reputation. He also requested that the NFA president refrain from further public comments that could defame him.