‘FIGA’ OFF TO S. AFRICA’S MARITZBURG

MBABANE – Manzini Sundowns’ striker Justice ‘Figa’ Figuareido is close to achieving one of his dreams of playing in South Africa’s money-spinning Absa Premiership.

The former Sihlangu forward will undergo a 10-day assessment at Kwazulu-Natal-based South Africa’s Absa Premiership side, Maritzburg United, from June 18. He was identified by the 2018 Nedbank Cup runners-up while on duty for the national Under-20 side. “He will arrive in South Africa on June 17 and be accommodated in a five-star hotel by the team. During his stay, he will be entitled to medical insurance and a substantial allowance.  “They want him to play in both flanks. If he hits the ground running, he will be signed,” said a well-informed source in Durban after the arrangement. Like all the Maritzburg players, ‘Figa’ will be examined by a doctor before training. Sundowns boss Mark Carmichael, who is also the Premier League of Swaziland (PLS) Chairman, confirmed the interest in the player from beyond the country’s borders.

“Yes, there is interest from a lot of South Africa’s PSL sides. “The initial plan was to take him to Europe, but we decided to explore South Africa first. It’s a perfect opportunity for the player, and I personally support him,” said Carmichael. South Africa’s National First Division outfit Mbombela United are among football sides from the neighbouring country that are also said to be after the services of the gifted forward. ‘Figa’ is one of the influential players at the Manzini-based side. At only 19, he got a senior national team Sihlangu call-up. In the past season, he blew hot and cold due to injuries, but steered his team to the top eight on the MTN Premier League charts. The interest comes at a time when Mbabane Swallows are also struggling to tighten their grip on their stars. The likes of Sanele Mkhweli, Felix Badenhorst, Banele ‘Pupu’ Sikhondze and Njabulo ‘D4D’ Ndlovu are linked with a switch to top South African teams.

Post your comment

Your name:

Your e-mail address:

Add your comments:

Please enter the code you see in the image:

Image:

Code: