I AM EAGER TO PLAY FOR ZESCO UNITED: MANYANG

Zambia has in the recent past become a hot destination for foreign players aiming to make a mark in football.

In the last five years, there has been an avalanche of foreign players from around the continent and beyond who have made Zambia their home away from home.

Last week, ZESCO United became the first Zambian club to acquire the services of a South Sudanese player.

27-year-old Peter Maker Manyang, penned a 2-year contract with the Zambian Super League champions, becoming the first Sudanese professional footballer to play in Zambia.

The gangling South Sudanese National Team captain left Zambian fans, particularly ZESCO United followers gasping for breath for his breathtaking height that left club Technical Chairman, Peter Mutale looking like a toddler when the two posed for a photo after completing Manyang’s deal.

The National Newspaper, Times of Zambia, described him as arguably the tallest player expected to grace the 2021/22 Zambian football season.

South Sudan may not be at par with Zambia in terms of football prowess. However, it is Manyang’s desire and mission to open doors to his fellow countrymen to the outside world by leaving an indelible mark at ZESCO United.

” ZESCO United is a big football club and a competitive team at continental level. I played against them in 2016 when they reached the CAF Champions League semi-finals. I am extremely delighted to join the club. I have also been an ardent follower of the Zambian game and am aware of the club’s success at domestic level.

“I want to make an impact here and contribute to the growth of the team by winning trophies. I have settled in very well. The players have been very friendly and am looking forward to working with everyone.”

Manyang had his first taste of the pitch at the Levy Mwanawasa stadium and game time when ZESCO United faced National Division one promoted side, Jumulo football club in friendly game played at the Levy Mwanawasa stadium on Saturday.

“This was a good friendly game for me because it gave me an opportunity to have a feel of the pitch and to play alongside other players. The intensity and environment was good. I feel good because I am working on my fitness especially that I was out for almost a week without training.”

“It was great to play alongside Clement Mwape and the other guys. I am slowly picking up pace with everyone else,” Manyang added.

With ZESCO United facing 2021 Absa Cup champions in the Samuel ‘Zoom’ Ndhlovu Charity Shield final slated for Woodlands stadium on Saturday next week, Manyang can’t wait to don Team Ya Ziko colours.

“I am eager to play for ZESCO United. Zambian league is very competitive, but this is not just about the Zambian league but its about playing for ZESCO United. It is a big task for me to improve and win titles with the club. As a foreign based player, you need to prove that to the rest of the team,” he said.

ZESCO United drew 3-3 against Jumulu in a practice match played at the Levy Mwanawasa stadium, Ndola on Saturday.

Author: Desmond Katongo