Ugandan national team goalkeeper Ismail Watenga’s return from his loan spell at DStv Premiership side Golden Arrows is in doubt.
The Cranes shot-stopper joined Sundowns in 2020 on a free transfer. His move to the Tshwane giants came after his time at Sofapaka FC in the Kenyan Premier League was cut short by injuries.
Watenga signed a long-term deal with the reigning PSL champions and was immediately loaned out. He had loan stints at Chippa United and Marumo Gallants.
At the start of this season, the 28-year-old was sent on loan to Arrows where he has featured 13 times in the DStv Premiership. His closest competitor, Sifiso Mlungwana, has played 10 games in all competitions this season.
Watenga’s switch to KZN came after Marumo Gallants were relegated to the Motsepe Foundation Championship after a disappointing 2022/23 season.
WHY ISMAIL WATENGA’S SUNDOWNS RETURN IS IN DOUBT
Meanwhile, the Brazilians recently extended Reyaad Pieterse’s contract, securing their goalkeeping ranks. Additionally, Ricardo Goss looks set to return to Sundowns following a loan spell at SuperSport United. This abundance of goalkeeping options leaves 28-year-old Watenga’s future with the reigning champions uncertain.
Arrows, however, have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring Watenga permanently. Recent developments at Sundowns suggest a diminishing need for Watenga’s services.
According to sources, even if the two clubs fail to reach an agreement, as Arrows could be unwilling to pay a fortune for the keeper, he could be shipped elsewhere on another loan.
Should a deal materialise, Watenga would have the opportunity to secure a regular starting position and continue his development in the South African Premier Soccer League.
The goalie left Vipers at the end of 2018 after his contract expired. He then joined Ethiopian club Bunna FC. During his seven-year tenure with Vipers, he contributed to two Uganda Premier League titles and a domestic trophy win.
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