Former Orlando Pirates star Siyabonga Sangweni wants to become a professional coach and has revealed that he is working towards his mentorship badges.
The 37-year-old, who enjoyed a successful 11-year career with both the Buccaneers and Lamontville Golden Arrows as well Bafana Bafana, will this weekend host the annual Siyabonga Sangweni Youth Festival in the Umfolozi Municipality, the region where he hails from.
The former central defender retired from playing in 2016 following a spate of injuries, but says he is now ready to take up management.
Sangweni’s interest in coaching follows recent calls by former coaches and legends of South African football for the likes of other well-respected retiring players like Teko Modise and Siyabonga Nomvethe to remain involved in the game.
Both hung up their boots at the end of 2018/19 and look set to continue with their clubs, Cape Town City and AmaZulu, respectively.
Sangweni says their understanding of local football could be a real asset as he discussed their futures.
Meanwhile, the Empangeni-born player believes his former club Pirates are improving all the time and believes they were better placed to challenge for the Absa Premiership title last season.
The Buccaneers narrowly missed out on the championship this season when they finished runners-up to Mamelodi Sundowns, coming second by a matter of just two points on the final day of the season.
Sangweni says only minor corrections are needed by Coach Milutin Sredojevic for the new term.
Sangweni also shared his thoughts on former teammate, Thabo Matlaba who was released by the Buccaneers last week.
The two played together in a formidable backline at the Orlando Stadium, before the 31-year-old slowly began to slip down the pecking order at the club.
Last season, Matlaba played just seven times after 18 appearances the previous season, with his high wage demands ultimately leading to his contract being severed.
Sangweni believes clubs should try to hold on longer to players like Matlaba. – Reports by Thahir Asmal
Sangweni interview in IsiZulu language
