Football

MBABANE – The strained relationship between Tanzanian club Tabora United and Eswatini international player Banele ‘Pupu’ Sikhondze has been revealed.

The former Mbabane Swallows fan favourite is reportedly training with Green Mamba to maintain his fitness while his agent, Adebayo, works to resolve his issues with Tabora United.

A source close to the former Polokwane City midfielder disclosed that the Tanzanian outfit owes an undisclosed amount for his promised signing-on fee when he joined them last season.

“The team also owes him three months’ salary, which his agent is currently negotiating with them to pay what is due to Pupu,” the source alleged.

These allegations were confirmed by, FIFA-accredited Agent Alimasi Bin Saleh, famously known as Adebayor in football circles, who revealed that Tabora United owes the former Mbabane Highlanders midfield maestro a total of E250 000.

This sum comprises his signing-on fee and three months’ worth of salaries. “They were supposed to give him E100 000 as a signing-on fee and E150 000 for three months’ salaries, as he is entitled to a E50 000 monthly wage,” Adebayo clarified.

The towering player’s agent confirmed that the former Manzini Wanderers crowd-puller is still contracted to Tabora United. “He has one year left on his contract; he signed a two-year deal with an option to renew,” he added.

Adebayo further stated that they would give Tabora United an opportunity to sort out their issues with the player before considering other options. “Two teams from Tanzania have shown interest in signing Pupu after he had a good debut season with Tabora,” he said.

It is worth noting that Pupu’s presence at the Correctional Services side was confirmed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mandla Sibiya. However, Sibiya was quick to highlight that the player had only requested to train with them while awaiting his return to Tanzania.

Tanzanian club Tabora United and Eswatini international player Banele ‘Pupu’ Sikhondze in this undated picture. (Pic: Facebook)