Linda Motlhalo part ways with Swedish side 

Banyana Banyana star Linda Motlhalo has parted ways with Swedish club, Djurgården IF.

Motlhalo joined Djurgårdens on a two-year deal in January 2020 and spent three years at the club.

Her departure will surprise many as Motlhalo had penned a two-year contract extension at Djurgården in January this year.

Motlhalo made an impact at the club as she was named Newcomer of the Year by her Djurgården teamates for her stellar displays in the 2020 season.

In total, she made 67 appearances for Djurgården, scoring four goals and providing two assists.

The Banyana star made her debut for the Swedish side on the 22nd of February 2020, where she went on to score a brace after coming on as a substitute in a Stockholm derby win against AIK.

MOTLHALO BIDS FAREWELL TO DJURGÅRDEN 

“I have enjoyed three amazing years at Djurgården and learned so much about myself. But the time has come to say goodbye,” said Motlhalo in a statement.

“From the beginning, DIF welcomed me with warm hearts and Sweden became my home away from home. 

“I will always appreciate the love and support shown to me by the supporters. As well as the efforts and spirit of my teammates, the coaches and all the staff.”

Motlhalo, a national asset is set to return to South Africa and decide on her next move.

She is already heavily linked with a move to Spanish giants Barcelona. 

The 24-year-old midfield maestro also had stints at Houston Dash and Beijing BG Phoenix.

Meanwhile, Djurgården sports manager Jean Balawo, wished Motlhalo well for the future. “She has had an incredible development in Djurgården, worked hard and always showed a professional attitude on the pitch,” said Balawo.

“She crowned her time in Djurgården by winning the 2022 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations [WAFCON] with South Africa.

“So we want to thank her for her time and achievements in the association and wish her the best of luck on her continued football journey.”

Motlhalo played a significant role in helping Desiree Ellis’ charges qualify for the 2022 WAFCON as she scored five goals in the qualification round. 

South Africa went on to win the WAFCON tournament, defeating the hosts Morocco with a 2-1 scoreline. 

Just to put a cherry on top, In 2016, Motlhalo was part of the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, and also played in the 2016 WAFCON in Cameroon for the South African senior women’s national team side. 

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