MBABANE – Mbabane Swallows have bolstered their squad with three players from Nsingizini Hotspurs in a season-long arrangement between the two clubs.
The players are Mvuselelo Mthethwa, Sandziso Masuku and Thobani Kunene, giving the Birds additional depth as they negotiate a demanding campaign.
Nsingizini PRO Sibusiso ‘Mnotfo’ Dlamini confirmed the agreement, saying the move was part of the clubs’ partnership and would give the players an opportunity to develop through regular football.
“They are joining Mbabane Swallows for one season as part of an agreement between the two clubs. We have not released them permanently,” said Dlamini.
“The idea is to give these young players an opportunity to improve their game. We believe they can develop further through the experience, and because the two clubs have a partnership, there is always room for future opportunities.”
Mthethwa is arguably the most familiar of the trio, having already made his mark at Nsingizini.
The centre-forward was named the club’s Rookie of the Year for the 2024/25 season and produced several important contributions, including a stoppage-time winner against Rangers in January 2025.
He also scored against Manzini Sea Birds in the final match of the 2025/26 season as Nsingizini were crowned MTN Premier League champions.
Mthethwa has, therefore, arrived at Swallows with a reputation for making his presence felt when opportunities come his way.
Masuku, meanwhile, is an attacking midfielder who joined Nsingizini from Red Rhinos during the January 2026 transfer window.
Nsingizini described the midfielder as a player capable of scoring and creating chances. He was also trusted to start against Zimbabwean side Scottland in the CAF Champions League second leg at Somhlolo National Stadium in September.
Kunene adds experience to the equation.
The South African is a left winger whose last listed club before joining Nsingizini last season was Summerfield Dynamos FC.
The trio’s arrival comes at an important juncture for Swallows, who have already had to navigate a depleted squad following the call-ups of three players to the national Under-23 side.
Siphosethu Hlatshwako, Sanele Ngwenya and Bongiswa Dlamini were part of the Under-23 squad competing in the TotalEnergies AFCON qualifiers.
Swallows PRO Knowledge Ngwenya had previously indicated that the club would seek guidance from the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) after their fixture was affected by the national team call-ups.
He subsequently said the three players from Nsingizini could be available for the weekend, subject to final approval from the club’s board of trustees.
For a Swallows side still shaping its squad, the temporary additions offer both numbers and experience at a time when squad depth has become an increasingly important issue.
