MBABANE – Has Nsingizini Hotspurs utility player Thando Langa retired from playing football?
This question comes after a source close to the back-to-back MTN Premier League champions revealed that the former Manzini Sea Birds player has been given a new off-field role at the club.
The versatile former national team Sihlangu player joined the Shiselweni-based side last season from rivals Mbabane Highlanders. However, he struggled to break into Mandla Qhogi’s starting XI, making only a few appearances as the team went on to make history by claiming three domestic trophies: The MTN Premier League, the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup and the Ingwenyama Cup.
“This is an open secret. Thando is no longer part of the playing squad as he has been given a role at management level in the club,” the source alleged.
The source reported that the former Manzini Wanderers player has been allocated a role in the marketing department, working closely with Marketing Chairperson Nozipho Shabangu.
Meanwhile, the player declined to comment on the matter when interviewed by this publication during the E40 000 sponsorship presentation to the ladies’ team by Orchard Insurance yesterday.
“I can’t comment,” Langa briefly said.
On the other hand, Insingizi Yezulu Public Relations Officer (PRO) Sibusiso ‘Mnotfo’ Dlamini confirmed that Langa is no longer part of the playing squad, though he is not yet aware of his exact new role.
“I think his new role will be communicated in due course by management and he will be unveiled to the supporters in his new capacity,” Dlamini said.
Langa’s move comes as the team prepare for their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League appearance early next month. Nsingizini Hotspurs were drawn against reigning Zimbabwean champions Scottland FC, who feature former Nsingizini player Kwakhe ‘Stopper’ Thwala.
It is worth noting that Langa was part of the marketing team when the club unveiled a sponsorship of an undisclosed amount from Sibebe at Esibayeni Lodge last Friday. He was present again during the Orchard Insurance sponsorship presentation that took place yesterday at the insurance company’s premises at the New Mall in Mbabane.
This is not the first time a player has been given an administrative role in the team. Bheki ‘Hobobo’ Mlotsa was previously appointed Manager of the Derrick Shiba-owned side. He transitioned into the managerial role a few seasons ago and has helped the club win multiple trophies, including last season’s treble haul.
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