Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Nkanyiso Zungu has signed a short-term, conditional contract with Betway Premiership club Magesi FC, providing a fresh start for the talented yet troubled player.
Zungu, who was with Pretoria Callies in the Motsepe Foundation Championship last season, has had a difficult journey since his good start with Pirates. He joined the Buccaneers in 2019 after helping Stellenbosch FC gain promotion to the top-flight.
Initially hailed as a promising talent, his time at Pirates was derailed by a series of off-field issues, including an arrest for domestic violence. After just 22 appearances for Pirates, he was sent on loan to Richards Bay FC for the 2022/23 season. However, that spell was also cut short due to alleged misconduct, and he was released by the Soweto giants in July 2023.
Following his departure from the Bucs, Zungu spent about eight months without a club before a short stint at the now-relegated NFD side Platinum City Rovers, and then Callies.
The AmaZulu academy graduate parted ways with Callies recently after the club sold its PSL status to Lerumo Lions.
And while at Callies, there were no reports of the issues that had plagued his time at Pirates and Richards Bay, suggesting a renewed focus on his career.
In a previous interview with FARPost, Zungu reflected on how his off-field issues prevented him from making a name for himself at the Buccaneers.
NKANYISO ZUNGU RETURNS TO TOP-FLIGHT WITH MAGESI
Following the sale of Callies to Lerumo Lions, Zungu has found a new lease of life at Magesi. The contract, however, comes with a condition. It offers the 29-year-old a new chance to prove himself.
“The contract says he must behave professionally at all times, or the club reserves the right to terminate,” a source told FARPost.
This move marks a critical juncture for the talented midfielder, who will be eager to put his past behind him and make a name for himself in the elite league.
The Magesi deal also sees Zungu make a return to the SA elite league since 2023, when he turned out for Richards Bay.
RELATED STORY: Nkanyiso Zungu reveals biggest Orlando Pirates regret