Stellenbosch FC has officially announced the signing of Azerbaijani defender Turan Manafov as a replacement for the recently departed Fawaaz Basadien.
The 27-year-old left-back joins Stellies on a free transfer and will wear the number two jersey.
He is expected to make his debut in the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates this Saturday, September 13th, at Mbombela Stadium.
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A European Addition for the Winelands
Stellenbosch FC has strengthened their backline with a player who brings international experience. Manafov joins the club after his contract expired with Kapaz PFK in his native Azerbaijan.
According to reports from iDiski Times, he chose the move to the Betway Premiership over offers from clubs in Romania.
Last season, the former Azerbaijan youth international was a key player for Kapaz, making 31 appearances across all competitions, scoring two goals and providing two assists.
His arrival comes at a crucial time for coach Steve Barker’s side, who are gearing up for a cup final against Orlando Pirates this weekend.
Manafov’s Ambitions with Stellies
Upon his arrival, Manafov expressed his excitement about joining the club and his ambitions for the future. “I am very happy to join Stellenbosch FC,” he stated on the clubs website. “The club’s ideas and principles appealed to me, and I am excited to be with a team that is competing at the highest levels.”
He acknowledged the difference in playing style between the two leagues. “I’ve noticed that games are played at a faster pace in South Africa than in Azerbaijan, although both countries have good leagues, so I’m looking forward to testing myself,” he said.
Manafov’s main goal is to help the club succeed. “My ambition is to help the Club compete for silverware and hopefully win trophies, and in doing so to showcase my talent on a bigger platform. I will always give my best for the team, and I’m excited to finally get started.”
With the MTN8 final on the horizon, the club’s new signing could be thrown straight into the deep end. The final is scheduled for Saturday, 13 September 2025, with kick-off set for 18h00 at the Mbombela Stadium.