Former Golden Arrows attacker Njabulo Manqana has issued a plea to the club’s management in order to revitalise the team’s performance from the 2024/25 season.
Arrows, a stalwart of the SA elite league, has weathered the storms of relegation and enjoyed moments of triumph. Despite a brief absence from the top-flight in the 2013/14 season, the club’s resilience has seen them maintain a consistent presence in the league.
Under the guidance of Manqoba Mngqithi, who would later go on to achieve significant success with Mamelodi Sundowns, Arrows experienced a golden era in 2009. The team clinched their maiden PSL title, the MTN8, with a resounding 6-0 victory over Ajax Cape Town [now Cape Town Spurs].
In that game, Manqana scored one of the greatest goals the tournament has seen. He snaked past the Ajaxx defender and spun the ball into the goal from the tightest of angles at Orlando Stadium.
Throughout its history, Manqana’s former club, Abafana Be’sthende, has been graced by the talents of legendary players like Richard Henyekane and Kagisho Dikgacoi. Siyabonga Sangweni, Mabhuti Khenyeza, Abia Nale, and Bryce Moon are also on the list. The club’s current roster also boasts goo players such as Knox Mutizwa, Ryan Moon, and Lungelo Nguse.
NJABULO MANQANA SAYS ARROWS MANAGEMENT SHOULD INVEST A LOT IN YOUNGSTERS
The former speedy attacker says the club should invest more in young talent. This is because Arrows does not have the financial power of other PSL giants like Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns.
Examples of PSL teams that have invested heavily in their youngsters are SuperSport United and Stellenbosch FC. The two clubs have been producing players from their academy who become stars and are bought by other teams.
“When it comes to Arrows, the team was known for producing great players,” Manqana told FARPost. But the team hasn’t been doing well in the past seasons. And to be honest, that’s a worrying factor.
“The club has the potential to return to what it was known for. They must invest a lot in youngsters. With proper grooming, the young talent can help the club improve.
“Look at SuperSport and Stellenbosch. They invested in young talent. As a result, both clubs have been doing well-selling players to other clubs. My plea to Arrows’ management is to produce their own players.
RELATED STORY: How MTN8 final spectacular goal changed Manqana’s life
