Former Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns striker, Edward Manqele, has explained why he struggled to establish himself at both South African football giants.
Manqele joined Sundowns from Free State Stars in 2012, but his time at the Pretoria-based club was cut short in 2014. He then moved to Chiefs in 2015 from Chippa United, where he stayed until 2017.
According to Manqele, the intense competition for places at Sundowns hindered his progress. The club had a many quality strikers, making it difficult for him to secure regular playing time.
At Chiefs, while the competition was less fierce compared to Sundowns, Manqele still faced challenges in breaking into the starting lineup. He believes that the regulars like Bernard Parker, Siphelele Mthembu and Bongani Ndulula made it difficult for him to play.
MANQELE RECALLS CHIEFS & SUNDOWNS STRUGGLES
“At Sundowns, it became a bit difficult because when you get there, you find players who are in the same position. You would find the seven of you in one position,” he told FARPost.
“So it was a bit difficult. But then, as a player, you don’t have to give up because I have played certain games and scored in a few.
“At Chiefs, I struggled a bit because you get there, and you find the likes of Bernard Parker still doing good.
“I also found Siphelele Mthembu; there was also Bongani Ndulula. So the competition was a bit hectic, but as a player, you need to fight for your spot.”
Nkosiyabuya Sithole, a young and rising sports journalist based in Durban, South Africa, harbors a deep passion for football. Nevertheless, he aspires to become a well-rounded journalist, adept in various areas of the field.
Nkosi’s career began in 2020, working as a home-based writer during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has since written for various websites, including Briefly News, FiND-iT News, and The South African. Attending live sporting events is a particular pleasure for him, as they provide opportunities for interaction with sports personalities.
Outside of the office, he’s a God-fearing and affable young man.
