Pretoria University have continued to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Motsepe Foundation Championship season after securing the signature of experienced midfielder Nhlanhla Mgaga on a one-year deal, FARPost has learnt.
FARPost can confirm that AmaTuks moved swiftly to sign the 30-year-old following his departure from Betway Premiership outfit TS Galaxy, as the club backs newly appointed head coach Michael Loftman in his bid to challenge for promotion.
Loftman has taken over the reins from Kwanele Kopo, who led Pretoria University to a 12th-place finish last season. The club has now set its sights much higher, with an improved finish identified as the minimum target for the 2026/27 campaign.
Mgaga arrives with a wealth of top-flight experience, having featured for a number of clubs over the past decade.
The former Baroka FC captain earned a move to Stellenbosch FC in June 2022 after impressing with his consistent performances in Limpopo. During his three-year spell in the Cape Winelands, he featured in 63 matches across all competitions, scoring once and providing five assists.
He was part of the Stellenbosch side that enjoyed the most successful period in the club’s history, helping them lift the Carling Knockout Cup and playing a key role in their record-breaking 2023/24 campaign, which secured a historic qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup for the first time.
Following his departure from Stellenbosch, Mgaga joined TS Galaxy, where he added further experience to his résumé. He made 52 appearances across two seasons, featuring 21 times in the league in each campaign, while helping the Rockets reach the Nedbank Cup final.
NHLANHLA MGAGA ARRIVES AS AMATUKS RELEASE SEVERAL PLAYERS
His arrival provides Loftman with proven leadership and valuable Premiership experience as Pretoria University builds a squad capable of competing at the top of the Championship table. AmaTuks are expected to make additional signings before the new season begins, as preparations ramp up under Loftman, who has been tasked with leading the club back into promotion contention following a disappointing finish last season.
Veli Mothwa and Vusi Sibiya are unlikely to return to the club next season. Additionally, striker Luke Daniels and midfielder Sifiso Mbidana have already moved to Highbury FC, which appointed Vusumuzi Vilakazi as their coach after parting ways with Kabelo Sibiya.
Experienced striker Prince Nxumalo is also believed to have been released by AmaTuks, despite ending the previous season as the club’s top scorer with six goals.
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