Former Mamelodi Sundowns forward Gift Motupa has revealed why decided to deal with his mental health following his sudden departure from Baroka FC.
Motupa rejoined Bakgaga in February this year after parting ways with Mamelodi Sundowns in January.
The 29-year-old frontman struggled for game time at Bafana Ba Style, which led to both parties to go their separate ways.
Before Motupa’s departure at Chloorkop, the ex-Orlando Pirates striker was not training with Sundowns but the Brazilians’ feeder team, M Tigers, in the SAFA Gauteng ABC Motsepe League.
Two days after cutting ties with Masandawana, Motupa resurfaced at Sundowns cross-town rivals SuperSport United, however, Matsatsantsa opted not to sign him.
Motupa has now signed for Betway Premiership newbies Magesi FC for the upcoming season.
GIFT MOTUPA ON WHY HE PRIORITISED HIS MENTAL HEALTH
Motupa reckons that he felt overwhelmed and decided to leave Baroka in order to take some time off and start everything afresh.
“I took the rest decision to deal with my mental health. I really needed some time off so I can start my football career in the right state of mind,” Motupa told FARPost.
“You know, I sat down with the chairman of club and said: “Look chairman, I think I need a bit of time like three months to refresh my mind from everything and start afresh.”
“So, I think I took a wrong decision for the right club. I needed time to calm down. And now I’m at my best.”
HOW GIFT MOTUPA FEELS TO BE PLAYING IN THE BETWAY PREMIERSHIP
The experienced striker also expressed his delight to be playing in the SA top-flight again.
“I’m very happy and excited. My mood is 100% now. I’m looking forward to helping the team,” he added.
“As you know, my first job is to score goals and my second job is to create scoring opportunities. My third job is to help the guys to be on their best level in terms of professionalism because most of them are still new in this level. But we got a very good coach that is helping us each and every day.”
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