Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has shared an update on how far midfielder Bongani Zungu is from getting regular game time.
Zungu returned to Sundowns in August last year after a few seasons in Europe. The 30-year-old reportedly had options to remain overseas but opted for a second stint at Sundowns.
The Bafana Bafana midfielder made just 21 appearances in all competitions in his first season since his return.
RULANI MOKWENA’S UPDATE ON BONGANI ZUNGU’S FITNESS
“He is getting there, he is getting there, and he is understanding. Bongs has had struggles, and don’t just look here now, look back,” said Mokwena.
“Bongs had a stint at Amiens, then he was sent on loan to Rangers and played a little bit and then had a little bit of off-field issues. He said to me the other day, ‘I am falling in love with the game again’. It’s a big statement, and you have to understand.
“Imagine if you are a big player like Bongani Zungu with all the hardships that you are going through. The first thing is that you start to protect your heart against the game because it has hurt you so much,” explained Mowkena when asked about Zungu’s progress after the match.
Zungu has also made two substitute appearances this season, including in the 1-0 win over Moroka Swallows in the MTN8 on Saturday.
“Now the process is to get Bongani Zungu to fall in love with the game. To make sacrifices for football and to make football feel like number one. That, again, is another process, but he is getting there. He really is getting there.”
WEIGHT LOSS FOR MAMELODI SUNDOWNS STAR
Mokwena has also applauded Zungu for losing some weight after some criticism upon his return.
“He is looking trimmer, I don’t know if you guys have seen, he has lost a lot of weight. Last season when I said Zungu needs to lose weight, you guys were also upset with the weight of Zungu.
“You also got to now publicly congratulate, especially because he shreds three or four kilos now, and that’s very difficult. So again, process, and I am very proud of him and these players, but we have to manage them.”
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