Young Africans SC winger Mahlatse Makudubela has explained why Stephane Aziz Ki turned down offers from the DStv Premiership.
Since he arrived from ASEC Mimosas in July 2022, the 28-year-old Burkina Faso international has emerged as one of the standout players for the Tanzanian Premier League team.
In the current season, he has contributed to 20 goals (scoring 13 and providing seven assists) in 20 league matches for the league leaders.
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Assessing the State of South African Football: Insights from Mahlatse Makudubela;
“We partly had a conversation, a slight one with Aziz Ki, he mentioned the standard of South African football [in the PSL] has dropped,” Makudubela said in an online interview with The Safja.
“It’s gone down, I don’t know why though, I couldn’t quite answer [to] that though, I think statistics can speak for itself, comparisons should be made right now.
“Tanzanian football, there are two clubs that [were] competing in the CAF Champions League quarter-finals, that says a lot about Tanzanian football and credit should be given to them, the TFA, the wonderful work they’re doing.
“And of course the two clubs, [Simba and Yanga], their Presidents and the work they’ve been putting in Eng. Hersi Said, he’s doing a tremendous job with the club and contributing as the Chairman of the African Club’s Association.”
He continued: “There’s a lot of investment put into Tanzanian football, the TFF has done a tremendous job, we all know East Africa will be hosting the next AFCON, so they’ve been representing East Africa very well lately and they’re competing in the top African competitions.
“As for South Africa, I think people are in a comfort zone, they are okay, we avoid relegation, it’s okay to play for a club just avoiding relegation, you don’t have ambitions [to move] and compete against Al Ahly, CR Belouizdad, all these African giants out there.
“I think in his mind, he’s thinking of ambitions. Yes, there’s money [in the PSL] it’s something you want to look at, but you also want to challenge yourself and grow yourself as a brand – so I think that’s where it comes. Maybe looking at it from a competition point of view.”
Mahlatse Makudubela’s Transfer to Yanga SC
Mahlatse Makudubela’s transfer to Yanga SC marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career. The winger’s transition to the Tanzanian giants was met with anticipation and excitement from both the club and its passionate supporters.
Having showcased his skills in various clubs across South Africa, Makudubela embraced the challenge of playing in East Africa. His move to Yanga SC provided him with an opportunity to immerse himself in a different footballing culture and environment.
Yanga SC, known as one of the powerhouses of Tanzanian football, welcomed Makudubela into their squad, recognizing his experience, skillset, and versatility. His ability to unlock defenses, provide crucial assists, and contribute to goal-scoring opportunities proved invaluable to Yanga SC’s aspirations in domestic and continental competitions.
For Makudubela, the transfer represented a chance to showcase his talent on a broader stage and contribute to a club with ambitious goals. It was an opportunity for personal growth and development as he adapted to a new playing style and formed bonds with his new teammates.
Wearing the yellow and green jersey of Yanga SC, Makudubela carried the hopes and dreams of the club’s supporters. With determination, skill, and commitment, he aimed to leave a lasting impact on the club’s history and make his mark in Tanzanian football.
As the season progressed, all eyes were on Mahlatse Makudubela as he embarked on his new adventure with Yanga SC, ready to leave his mark on one of Africa’s most storied clubs.
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