Zimbabwean Premier Soccer League side Caps United have set a new record for Malawian representation at a foreign club following the signing of midfielder Uchizi Vunga from FDH Bank Premiership side Silver Strikers.
Vunga joins compatriots Chawanangwa Kaonga, Lloyd Njaliwa and Precious Phiri at the Harare-based outfit, taking the number of Malawian players in the Green Machine squad to four.
In addition, former Flames midfield maestro Joseph Kamwendo serves as the club’s second assistant coach, making Caps United the only foreign club currently boasting four Malawian players and a Malawian member of the technical panel.
The development eclipses the recent record set by Mozambican giants Costa do Sol, which had four Malawian players’ namely: Yamikani Chester, Richard Mbulu, Lloyd Njaliwa and Chikoti Chirwa in their squad during the 2023 season.
While Costa do Sol matched Caps United’s tally of four Malawian players, the Zimbabwean giants now stand alone because of Kamwendo’s presence in the coaching panel.
For Vunga, the move represents another step in his career after impressing during his stint with Silver Strikers.
Meanwhile, in a farewell message, the midfielder thanked the Bankers players, supporters and officials for helping forge his career.
He said: “As I embark on a new chapter in my career, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude. To Silver Strikers FC, thank you for believing in me, supporting me and giving me the opportunity to grow both as a player and as a person.
“To the incredible fans, thank you for your unwavering support, love and passion. You have been my strength on-and-off the pitch. To everyone in Malawi, thank you for making me feel at home. The memories, the lessons and the connection will stay with me forever.”
Vunga has also promised to work hard at his new club.
“I am excited about this new journey and the challenges ahead. I will continue to work hard, represent with pride and make my family, my country and all who believe in me proud,” he said.
Other Malawian players in Zimbabwe include McDonald Lameck who has just joined HardRock FC, Maxwell Paipi and Nickson Nyasulu who are with FC Platinum, Gomezgani Chirwa who is with Ngezi Platinum Stars and William Thole who turns up for Simba Bhora.
