Masindi Nemtajela’s agent, Nimrod Mbhalati, has shared his views on why his client has fit in like a glove in the Orlando Pirates setup, having joined the Soweto giants from Marumo Gallants at the beginning of the season.
The 24-year-old, Nemtajela, has become the talk of the town following his recent impressive performances in Pirates colours.
Since his arrival at the Buccaneers, he has featured in 13 matches across all competitions and contributed one goal.
His stellar displays for the Sea Robbers earned him his first Bafana Bafana call-up. Hugo Broos’ troops are set to lock horns with their neighbours, Zambia, in an international friendly on Saturday, 15 November, at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha. The showdown will start at 18:00.
Nemtajela, who plays as a central midfielder, was once named in the Bafana CHAN squad during the tournament’s qualification phase, selected by coach Molefi Ntseki while he was still in the books of Bahlabane ba Ntwa.
THE FACTORS THAT HELPED MASINDI NEMTAJELA SETTLE WELL AT ORLANDO PIRATES
Mbhalati mentioned that Nemtajela’s adaptability and strong work ethic worked in his favour. He also pointed out that his prior experience with coach Abdeslam Ouaddou at Gallants was beneficial since the coach is very familiar with him.
“I think he didn’t struggle to fit in at Orlando Pirates simply because he is a versatile player. He has a high work rate, and also, Pirates is a ball-playing team, which suits his style of play. He is also comfortable on the ball. Also, Abdeslam Ouaddou knows how to use him because they worked together at Marumo Gallants last season,” Mbhalati told FARPost.
“Another factor is that Masindi is a hard-working young man who believes in himself and is very confident. I remember when the season started, he wasn’t playing, and I tried to motivate him to stay focused.
“But to my surprise, he said to me, “Manager, relax. I’m here to make an impact, and when I get my chance, I will grab it.” I think that’s what’s happening now.”
MASINDI NEMTAJELA’S AGENT RECALLS HOW HIS CLIENT REACTED TO BAFANA CALL UP
Nemtajela’s agent recalled how his client reacted when he told him that he had been selected for the Bafana final squad to face Chipolopolo.
“He was very shocked and in disbelief because I remember I was the one who delivered the news to him since he was in camp preparing for the Golden Arrows game in Durban,” he added.
“So, when I called to let him know that he made the final squad, he was a bit shocked. I don’t want to lie; this call-up also made me feel emotional based on where we actually come from.”
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