Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has likened midfield engine Bongani Zungu to a former Liverpool and Barcelona star.
Zungu has been one of the key players for the Tshwane giants in the 2023/24 PSL season. Lately, he has been deployed in a different role than what he’s used to [central midfield].
The former Bafana Bafana international now plays in a more defensive role, and has sometimes played in defence – at centre-back.
This campaign, the 31-year-old has made 23 appearances in all competitions, and provided two assists.
The Soweto-born mentor says Zungu has adapted well to his new role and is playing like Javier Mascherano. The Argentinian legend was a defensive midfielder but later on, was converted to a centre-back.
RULANI MOKWENA SAYS BONGANI ZUNGU REMINDS HIM OF JAVIER MASCHERANO
“Bongs [Bongani Zungu] reminds me of [Javier] Mascherano. If you remember that role Mascherano played for Barcelona back in the day when he left Liverpool and went to Barcelona as a six [defensive midfielder],” said Mokwena.
“Bongs is doing that very well. He compliments Tebza [Teboho Mokoena] a lot because Tebza can get a little bit higher on the pitch.
“Bongs has the capacity from technical, tactical [aspect], very experienced. He’s a big boy and very clued up, so he knows when to step in and when to fill in the chain.
“He makes us forget a little bit about Reeva [Rivaldo Coetzee]. Even though we’ve tried Reeva in that position, and he’s done exceptionally well.”
Mokwena further singled out Zungu for praise for the leadership qualities he brings to the team.
“A lot of credit needs to go to him, so very proud of him. Good mentality, good human being, supports the kids [youngsters] and controls the team. He doesn’t need an armband to take leadership, which is very good,” he added.
RELATED STORY: Bongani Zungu reveals what Sundowns have been working on
