The Moroccan tactician, who recently took over from Alexandre Lafitte at Bahlabane Ba Ntwa, was notably missing during the side's goalless draw at Dr Molemela Stadium last Sunday.

His absence raised eyebrows, particularly as it came shortly after a difficult start to his tenure, which included a 3-0 defeat to Magesi FC. The situation was further complicated when the 47-year-old was listed as an assistant coach on the official team sheet, while Trevor Mathiane was named as head coach for the match.

This unusual development led to speculation that Benouahi could already be under pressure. However, the club has dismissed those suggestions.

According to club spokesperson Sello Nduna, the coach's absence is purely due to health concerns, nothing more.

"It's true that the coach was not on the bench against Orbit, and if you recall, his first game was against Magesi," Nduna told KickOff.

"The coach, even currently as I am speaking to you, he is still out, booked off because he went to the doctor, and fortunately, we have a doctor's certificate."

Nduna confirmed that Benouahi has been booked off until the 18th of this month and has also not been present at training sessions during the week.

"Unfortunately, because of the doctor's order, we're also trying to avoid a situation where he can get contact with the players," he explained.

"We are not sure what he is suffering from. It's just like a teacher — if a teacher is not well, he cannot go to class to interact with kids. But the coach is still here and he is still our coach."

It remains unclear whether Benouahi will return in time for the Bloemfontein derby against Siwelele FC on Saturday, which coincides with the final day of his medical leave.

Gallants are currently battling to avoid relegation, sitting 14th on the table with 19 points — just three ahead of bottom-placed Magesi with six matches remaining in the season.

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