Angolan club, Wiliete SC midfielder Mahlatsi Makudubela has revealed the secret behind his ability to keep attracting African clubs.
Popularly known as ‘Skudu’, the 35-year-old winger has enjoyed an eventful stay abroad since leaving South Africa in 2023.
After a stella display in the 2022/23 PSL season for Marrumo Gallants, Makudubela left the Limpopo club to join Tanzanian giants, Young Africans SC. An unorthodox development for a player of his age as he made his first move abroad at an advanced age of 32.
The skilful winger did not enjoy a lengthy stay in Tanzania as he was released after spending one season at Yanga. Congolese giants, AS Vita Club secured his services soon after his Yanga departure.
Operating like a modern football explorer, the former Orlando Pirates winger recently moved to his fourth African country. His most recent move landed him at Angola’s Girabola League club, Wiliete FC.
The dribbling wizard spoke to FARPost about his nomadic career within the African continent, expressing happiness and fulfilment.
“Playing for three different countries in Africa has been quite fruitful for me. Its been a good journey full of experiences, full of challenges. I grow as a player and as a human being also. So, I must say I am very happy that I sort of paved the way for other South Africans,” explained Makudubela.
Speaking in elation, the former Chippa United player added, “So yah man I think I have just endured and said you know what, this is more than just hoping from one country to another. I think it’s more of a calling.”
MAKUDUBELA TALKS FELLOW FELOW SOUTH AFRICANS ABROAD
African football has recently an increase in intercontinental transfers between clubs in the continent. South African players and tacticians have also grown to be one of the most sort after throughout Africa.
Makudubela speaks of this growing fashion, highlighting his delight and further alluding to the success of Yanga coach, Fadlu Davids.
“I am so happy to see coach Fadlu doing well and I would love to see more coaches and players go play in the other African countries because they can really make it out there. The talent that we have in South Africa is appreciated,” said the Vosloorus born footballer.
He concluded by speaking of the challenges faced by local players abroad, in response to a prevalent trend that sees them enjoy short spells before returning back home.
“It also can be more challenging when you join a club that doesn’t really take care of you. It becomes a bit more challenging, and you feel like you are better of coming home you know. But you know when the going gets tough you need to just keep on going, enduring the process because after every storm there is a brighter day.”