Despite signing with Sundowns in September 2020 from the now-defunct Real Kings, Phewa has never made an appearance for the club. Instead, the 24-year-old former South African youth international has spent the last three years on loan at Chippa United, the University of Pretoria, and Cape Town Spurs.
Phewa expressed his determination to make the most of his time at AmaZulu. “I just have to accept what’s happening without complaining. I have come here to play, that’s all.
“I am hoping to perform and return to my best form this season,” he said during his unveiling at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
The event also saw AmaZulu announce Amandla Mobile as their new headline sponsor, replacing Spar.
For Phewa, playing in his hometown of Durban is a cherished opportunity, but he made it clear that he wouldn’t rest on his laurels. “It’s good to be back at home, but that doesn’t mean I will relax because I am now back in Durban. I have been in the game for quite a few years and I still want to grow.
“Being back doesn’t put me under any pressure at all. I will try my best to be disciplined and go about my business of playing football for the club,” Phewa stated.
Phewa’s return to fitness is a priority, as he is still recovering from a groin injury sustained at Cape Town Spurs. “I still have to be fit because at Spurs I got injured and I am doing my rehab right now.
“So, I won’t rush myself to play, but I think I will be fit when the league starts,” he added, displaying a cautious yet optimistic approach to his recovery.
Meanwhile, AmaZulu president Sandile Zungu has revealed that the sponsorship deal with Amandla Mobile was more lucrative than the previous agreement with Spar. “I can assure you that it’s significantly better than what we were getting from Spar, and when they said they wanted to keep it confidential, it’s because we also want to see how long they will stay,” Zungu said, without disclosing the length or financial details of the deal.
Phewa’s career trajectory has been marked by perseverance and adaptability. His journey from youth international to a seasoned player enduring multiple loan spells highlights his resilience. Now, with the backing of AmaZulu and a return to his roots in Durban, Phewa is poised to seize this opportunity to reignite his career.