Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi explains why club legend Themba Zwane was offered a one-year contract extension.
Masandawana confirmed the 35-year-old has signed an extension that will keep him at Chloorkop until the end of the 2024/25 season.
Some fans have questioned the club’s decision to give Zwane a single-year deal as they feel the player has shown no signs of slowing down despite his age.
“I think it’s the right thing to do, and everybody is free to have their opinions but I feel it’s the right thing to do because, for the players at that age, it’s important to keep them on their toes,” Mngqithi told media at the weekend.
“I don’t think it necessarily means that he will be out of the club after one year. But for him to stay sharp, I think it’s important that he knows he has to fight for the next contract.”
Mngqithi suggested the other Premier Soccer League (PSL) follow the pattern of giving senior players short deals rather than long-term contracts.
“I think if all PSL teams can adopt this, it will be the best thing that we can do for South African football,” Mngqithi said.
“Most of these senior players want to get a four-year contract because they know they are looking for retirement and you want them to perform every week.
“I think it’s a good thing and I think Mshishi is the right player because he is a very professional player.
He works very hard. He will know that he cannot sit on his laurels, he has to give it his best shot and I’m very confident he will do.”
Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi explains why they gave Themba 'Mshishi' Zwane one-year contract. pic.twitter.com/i8ZByuEhgN
— Mahlatse Mphahlele (@BraMahlatse) August 11, 2024
