Ismail Watenga, presently contracted to Mamelodi Sundowns, has re-joined Golden Arrows for another loan loan in the upcoming season.
Last season, the Ugandan shot-stopper emerged as Abafana Bes’thende’s number-one goalkeeper during his season-long loan period.
However, an injury sidelined him for a while, with Sfiso Mlungwana stepping in during his absence.
Watenga notched up 19 appearances for Arrows, delivering several impressive displays, including a standout performance against his parent club, Sundowns.
His return to the Brazilians was always improbable due to their established goalkeeping department.
The DStv Premiership champions boast a strong contingent with Ronwen Williams, Dennis Onyango, Jody February, Reyaad Pieterse, and the recently returned Ricardo Goss from his loan spell at SuperSport United.
WATENGA, SPOTTED AT ARROWS TRAINING, RETURNS FOR ANOTHER LOAN SPELL
The 29-year-old shot-stopper gears up for the new season alongside Sfiso Mlungwana and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, all vying for the starting goalkeeper position.
This marks Watenga’s fourth loan spell since signing with Mamelodi Sundowns. Before joining Arrows last season, he spent time on loan at Chippa United [2020/21 & 2021/22] and Marumo Gallants [2022/23].
Watenga signed for Masandawana in 2020 on a free transfer.
He has previously played for Vipers SC [Uganda], Ethiopian C [Ethiopia] and Sofapaka FC [Malawi].
ARROWS WANTED WATENGA ON A PERMANENT
Meanwhile, FARPost understands Arrows expressed their desire to acquire Watenga permanently. The KZN club was said to have submitted a formal bid to the Tshwane giants in the mid-season.
However, according to a source, the clubs eventually agreed on another loan deal.
Ultimately, Arrows found it necessary to make an addition to their goalkeeping department, particularly after parting ways with Nigerian goalkeeper Olufemi Kayode.
As previously reported, Arrows also released defender Siyavuya Ndlovu and left-winger Thubelihle Magubane ahead of the start of the new season.
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