‘BIRDS’ STAR REJECTS LUCRATIVE OFFER

MBABANE - Mbabane Swallows left-back Siphosethu Mabilisa has reportedly turned down an offer to join Nsingizini Hotspurs, choosing instead to explore other opportunities. Sources close to the player indicated that Mabilisa informed Nsingizini of his decision, believing the deal was arranged without his consent. The defender is reportedly aiming to join one of the three security forces teams, although details remain unconfirmed at this time. Sources close to the deal alleged Mabilisa rejected a monthly salary of E9 500 and other exciting perks that include bonuses from Nsingizini Hotspurs, signalling his desire for a more suitable opportunity that includes job security.
Impeccable sources revealed that Swallows had reached an agreement with Nsingizini for Mabilisa’s transfer; however, the player firmly declined the move to the ambitious Shiselweni-based club, preferring a position with one of the security services teams instead.

The want-away Swallows player has escalated matters to the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Players’ Status Committee (PSC) following a contractual dispute with his current club, Umkhonto KaShaka. The highly-regarded defender, who resigned last Friday, accuses the club of failing to uphold the terms of his contract, particularly regarding a salary that has remained unpaid for the last three months—contrary to the agreed conditions upon his signing.

tumultuous

Currently, the capital city giants are facing a tumultuous period, with reports suggesting that players have not received payments for the past three months. Their last payment in September only covered half of their salaries. In light of these developments, Swallows players who joined during the 2021/2022 season have lodged complaints with the status committee, with Mabilisa submitting his letter at Sigwaca House yesterday.  When reached for comment, Nsingizini Public Relations Officer (PRO) Sibusiso ‘Mnotfo’ Dlamini confirmed that the deal did not unfold as anticipated. However, he did not disclose the figures involved.  “While it is true that the player in question rejected the deal, we are pleased to have signed Ayanda Gadlela. Further details will be disclosed when the player is officially unveiled by the team,” he stated. Dlamini also reassured supporters that Coach Alexio Sigion, who has reportedly considered stepping down, remains an integral part of the team.

hostage

He denied reports that the management was being held hostage following their recent 2-1 defeat to Red Rhinos in the last 32 of the Ingwenyama Cup. Meanwhile, the player declined to comment. Swallows Public Relations Officer (PRO) Knowledge ‘Bhambo’ Ngwenya could not respond to questions sent regarding the player. Other notable departures from the Birds’ nest include Leon Manyisa, who has joined Young Buffaloes; Siyabonga Zwane, now with Green Mamba; and Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini, who has signed with Nsingizini Hotspurs. The latest addition, Gadlela, has also joined Nsingizini. Details regarding the transfer fees for these players have been scarce, as clubs have remained tight-lipped about financial specifics.

notable

On a related note, a notable incident occurred in 2024 when highly-rated midfielder Declan Rice rejected an offer from Manchester City to join Arsenal instead. Despite City’s lucrative proposal, which included a substantial salary and the prospect of competing for multiple trophies, Rice expressed a strong desire to return to London and play for a club where he felt he could make a significant impact. His decision was influenced by personal connections and the vision that Arsenal’s management presented for the team’s future.

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