On-form attacking midfielder Keletso Makgalwa has admitted that things started to change for him at his former club, Mamelodi Sundowns when hugely respected coach Pitso Mosimane left to join Al Ahly.
Makgalwa was promoted to the Sundowns senior team during the 2017/18 season when South Africa’s most successful football coach, Mosimane, was the man at the helm – head coach.
But Limpopo-born Makgalwa faced a challenging period at Sundowns, spending significant time on the sidelines due to intense competition for playing time at the star-studded side. To gain valuable experience, he was loaned out to other clubs on multiple occasions.
The clubs include Maritzburg United [Durban City FC], Chippa United, Moroka Swallows, and TS Galaxy. Makgalwa impressed during the past season in the Motsepe Foundation Championship at Upington City FC.
Makgalwa believes that his development and confidence suffered after Mosimane’s departure at Sundowns. He felt that Mosimane played a crucial role in supporting and guiding him during his time at the club.
WHY PITSO MOSIMANE HAS AN IMPACT ON KELETSO MAKGALWA AT MAMELODI SUNDOWNS
“I wouldn’t say I was complaining about the mentality back then. But I think after Pitso [Mosimane] left, everything just changed because he was the one taking care of me,” said Makgalwa in an interview with FARPost.
“He was making sure I ate well, and I lived a healthy life. So yeah, I think that’s where I lost it. But I think now I am back, and I am ready to fight.”
“I was also struggling with injuries at Sundowns. That’s where the problem was as well. Every time I was ready to play, something happened, and it was always difficult for me.”
NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR NEWLY-SIGNED SEKHUKHUNE UNITED ATTACKER
The 27-year-old has since moved on and has joined Betway Premiership side Sekhukhune United. He has also rediscovered his form at the club with two Man of the Match awards already in the new 2024/25 season.
Makgalwa expressed his confidence in his ability to make a significant contribution to Galaxy and potentially earn a call-up to the Bafana Bafana national team in the future, where he also believes he will excel.
“To me, I believe I have so many things to offer, especially in South African football, internationally, and even in Bafana. I think I am capable of doing good,” he said.
Makgalwa has already scored two goals for his new club Sekhukhune United in the CAF Confederation Cup.
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