Cape Town City goalkeeper Hugo Marques has reportedly asked to be released for personal reasons. As things stand, Saturday’s game against AmaZulu may have been his last.
His departure comes as a massive setback for the Citizens, who will play in the CAF Champions League this season. A source close to the 36-year-old goalie told FARPost that the goalkeeper would likely get his wishes.
“He has a pressing family issue to attend to, and the club understands his position, and they’re agreeable to letting him go. Saturday’s game may have been his last in Cape Town City colours,” the source said.
“Of course, leaving amicably, the door may still be open should anything change in the near future.” The Angolan penned a new deal at the end of the season, insisting he wanted to conquer Africa with the Citizens.
The veteran shot-stopper was a revelation for Eric Tinkler’s side after joining them on a one-year deal at the start of the 2021/22 DStv Premiership season. After a stellar season, he was rewarded with a new contract, which would have kept him at the club until June 2023.
The Portugal-born goalie was also named Goalkeeper of the Season at the PSL awards and Player of the season for the Cape Town-based club. He was vital as City finished second, keeping 14 clean sheets in 27 appearances for the Citizens. His performances even earned him a recall to the Angola national team.
His departure presents former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Darren Keet with an opportunity to reclaim the number one jersey at the club. City’s third-choice goalkeeper last season, Bongani Mpandle, who is yet to find a new home after leaving in frustration, may find himself back at the club.
He would offer Keet back up as they play in Africa. City have not started the new season too well, losing all three opening matches. Sundowns beat them on the first day of the league before losing to Swallows and AmaZulu. Tinkler knows his charges need to pick themselves up and start winning games quickly.
The club announced the arrival of Wayde Lekay on a three-year deal. Earlier in the transfer window, they signed Marc van Heerden, Kajally Drammeh and Jordan Bender.
