Why Ace’s move to Sundowns makes no sense

We take a look at why former Bucs captain, Oupa Manyisa, moving to Sundowns makes no sense.
We take a look at why former Bucs captain, Oupa Manyisa, moving to Sundowns makes no sense.

On Thursday, Orlando Pirates called a press conference to announce the worst kept secret the PSL has seen for a long time – the arrival of coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic.

But what has surprised many, if not all, football fans across the country, is Dr. Irvin Khoza announcing the departure of club-captain, Oupa Manyisa, to Mamelodi Sundowns on a permanent transfer.

The club chairman also confirmed that they will receive no money from the African champions, but instead, one or two Downs players could go the opposite way.

Reports suggest that Asavela Mbekile, Siyanda Zwane and Mogakolodi Ngele could be offered to the Buccaneers, and with the players Pirates have signed already, getting one or two of the aforementioned players would be a decent move for Micho’s new side.

My main argument is, why on Earth would a team like Mamelodi Sundowns, who have endured so much success over the last few years, go for a Manyisa, who is clearly past his prime years.

The only logical reason could be to replace Teko Modise, who is now at Cape Town City. However, although Manyisa has loads of PSL experience, I think it may be a step backwards for Sundowns.

‘Ace’ doesn’t offer the same leadership skills that Teko brought to Downs. The 29-year old will get plenty of opportunities to shine, like Modise, as Masandawana play in the PSL, MTN8, Nedbank Cup, Telkom Knockout and CAF Champions League.

To me, it still doesn’t make much sense. Manyisa was a regular for many years at Orlando Pirates, now, I could only see him making the Downs bench. Anthony Laffor, Yannick Zakri, Percy Tau, Sibusiso Vilakazi, Leonardo Castro and Khama Billiat will give Pitso Mosimane a headache selection as his front three.

Meanwhile, the midfield picks itself with Hlompho Kekana, Tiyani ‘Shuga’ Mabunda and Themba Zwane. They also have former Free State Stars midfielder, Lucky Mohomi, on the bench – a player I rate quite highly.

So for me, Manyisa may be a good player to have in your squad, but he will make no difference to an already-complete Sundowns midfield.

Written by Jesse Nagel