Bafana Bafana legend Sibusiso Zuma has words of wisdom for Thapelo Maseko, who is starting a new chapter at Danish giants FC Copenhagen, the same club where Zuma made his name.
Maseko [22] was unveiled by FC Copenhagen on Tuesday following a frustrating spell at Mamelodi Sundowns, where he appeared to fall down the pecking order.
The winger’s future had been plunged into uncertainty after reports that Sundowns knocked back several concrete offers for his services. Maseko was reportedly not interested in rejoining Cyprus side AEL Limassol, where he was on loan last season.
He has now secured a fresh start at the club where the Bafana legend – Zuma carved out his niche between 1999 and 2005. Zuma went on to also play for Arminia Bielefeld, Mamelodi Sundowns, FC Nordsjælland, Vasco da Gama and SuperSport United.
Zuma helped FC Copenhagen win two Danish Superliga titles and scored an iconic, championship-winning bicycle kick against arch-rivals Brøndby IF in 2001.
He was also voted the club’s best player ever by fans in 2006. In addition, he played 167 matches for the club, scoring 47 goals and providing 40 assists, according to Transfermarkt.
‘STAY TRUE TO WHO YOU ARE’: ZUMA TELLS THAPELO MASEKO
Zuma is optimistic about what the future holds for Maseko, and is said to have played a major role in orchestrating the move. In an interview with FARPost, Zuma offered Maseko encouragement, saying what he learns at the club will be key to helping Bafana Bafana.
“Be yourself” is the motto. This is a massive step in his career, and the most important thing now is for him to stay true to who he is, both on and off the pitch. He must keep his character, keep his head, and trust his own thoughts,” Zuma told FARPost.
“This move to Denmark is going to teach him so much. I had a good experience at the club and in Denmark myself, and I know what it can do for a player. I truly believe in Thapelo Maseko’s talent. He has qualities that we need in Bafana Bafana: pace, bravery, and that desire to take players on.”
ZUMA’S WISH FOR MASEKO AND BUDDING SA FOOTBALLERS
Zuma added: “Hopefully he also opens the door for more South African players. The Danish league is very competitive; it’s well structured, and if he does well there, it will show other clubs that our boys can compete at that level.
“I’m genuinely happy for him as a player. This is exactly the kind of progress we want to see for our young players. To test themselves abroad, to grow, and to come back better for the national team.
“When I arrived in Copenhagen, I got a massive reception. I was in the newspapers even before I landed. That kind of welcome does a lot for you. So I’m glad the same is happening for him now. That early support is important because it helps boost his confidence as a player from day one.”
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