Eswatini Premier League giants Mbabane Highlanders are said to be pushing for a partnership proposal with their South Africa DStv Premiership counterparts, Marumo Gallants, Mamelodi Sundowns and SuperSport United.
Sundowns and SuperSport are yet to confirm the development, whereas Gallants media and club liaison manager Rufus Matsena says Highlanders’ proposal is not yet formal.
“That is something which is not solid. If there is something like that, we will actually, in due course, let you know. Yes, we did toy around with the issue of an exchange programme of some sort so that we have players coming to this side one way or the other, so it is still a work in progress,” Matsena tells FARPost.
Eswatini media quoted Highlanders chairman Ally Kgomongwe, saying they were currently in talks with the three DStv premiership sides for exchange programmes.
“We are currently in discussion with Mamelodi Sundowns, SuperSport and Gallants over possible partnerships. I can safely say the three teams have shown interest in coming to Eswatini. This will help improve the standard of football in the country,” he is quoted saying.
The Pretoria-based businessman said they would formally inform the Eswatini Football Association and the Premier League of Eswatini about the proposed partnership with the South African teams.
“We want to do things the proper way and will soon meet the Eswatini football authorities on the developments, and we hope the talks will yield positive results,” Kgomongwe added.
The proposed partnership comes after Highlanders visited South Africa to play friendlies against Sundowns, Gallants and Orlando Pirates in Rustenburg.
The friendlies were part of Highlanders’ quest to ensure readiness for the Confederation Cup, Kgomongwe said.
“We want to prepare well for Africa as we want to compete and not just add numbers. We are aware it will not be easy, but we will do our best,” he said.
Highlanders will return to continental football for the first time since 2011 under the guidance of South African mentor Selaotse Mosala.
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