After securing a move to Magesi FC, former Orlando Pirates midfielder Nkanyiso Zungu credited coach John Maduka with throwing him a lifeline to revive his career in the Betway Premiership.
The 29-year-old signed for Dikwena Tsa Meetse in the just-ended transfer window period, as the Limpopo club wanted to beef up its midfield options for the 2025/26 campaign.
The talented attacking midfielder joined Magesi from the Motsepe Foundation Championship side Pretoria Callies, which has since sold its PSL status to Lerumo Lions FC.
Zungu made his debut for the Maduka-coached side in their 2-0 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns in a Betway Premiership encounter at a packed Seshego Stadium in Polokwane a month ago. He came on from the bench, replacing Tholang Masegela in the 83rd minute of that showdown.
So far, Zungu has made eight appearances out of the 10 games played by Magesi in the current season.
‘HE’S LIKE FATHER FIGURE TO ME’: SAYS NKANYISO ZUNGU
Zungu regarded coach Maduka as a father figure who has faith in his abilities and understands how to maximise his potential.
“You know, coach Maduka is like a father figure to me. He is a good human being and looks after us, so it feels nice to work under his leadership. He has taught me a lot so far, and that makes me feel happy under his guidance because he brings out the best in me. I’m thankful to him for giving me another chance to play in the Premier League,” Zungu told FARPost.
“I feel happy once again. You know, anyone would feel excited to be playing in the top flight again. It’s been a while, and I’m grateful for the opportunity I have been granted by the team’s chairman, coach, and everyone at Magesi for giving me a second chance.
“I know why I’m here. So, if you know where you come from, then you wouldn’t want to go back there. I have been working hard at training and putting in extra effort. I don’t want to go back, and that’s why I’m here—to achieve what I want to achieve and help the team to reach greater heights.”
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