Mamelodi Sundowns co-coach Manqoba Mngqithi has given a hint on when Bongani Zungu is likely to debut for the reigning DStv Premiership champions.
Sundowns supporters might have to wait longer to witness the return of Zungu. Six years after his departure, the Bafana Bafana midfielder has returned to the club.
The 29-year-old was unveiled in front of a sold-out affair between Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs at Loftus Stadium last weekend.
He had been without a club since he officially parted ways with French side Amiens SC in July.
Mngqithi has given an update on Zungu’s progress since he started training and admitted that his return might not be too soon.
“I think he is still a little bit far considering that he was not part of the pre-season training, and he still has a little bit of work to do,” said Mngqithi after their 1-1 draw against Sekhukhune United at Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane on Saturday.
“He has not been playing for the longest of time, but we are hoping that (his return) will be shorter than two months because he is a very disciplined boy who works very hard, who has shown interest to really come and assist the team.
“So, we are looking forward to seeing the progress that he makes in the next three to four weeks, but we are optimistic that he will definitely come and help,” he said.
Before his move to Portugal side Victoria Guimaraes, in 2016, Zungu spent three seasons at Sundowns. He went on to play for Guimaraes for two and half seasons before joining Amiens SC.
The former University of Pretoria player spent the 2020/21 season on loan at Scottish giants Rangers. But he struggled for game time upon his return to Amiens last season, making 13 appearances overall.
In 2020 Zungu saw his proposed move to RCD Mallorca collapse at the last minute after terms had been agreed between his then club, Amiens, and the Spanish club.
It was reported that Amiens had decided to pull out of the deal after failing to find a replacement for Zungu.
