New Esperance Sportive de Tunis signing Elias Mokwana says he declined calls from Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns because he wanted to leave his comfort zone in South Africa.
The 24-year-old pacey winger sealed a three-year deal to Taraji after they reached an agreement with Sekhukhune United for an undisclosed transfer.
Mokwana’s performances for Babina Noko and later for Bafana Bafana, where he’s made four appearances, scoring one goal, soon caught the eye of numerous clubs who lined up for his signature.
In his first interview since joining the North African giants, the former Platinum City Rovers attacker also described his move as a “dream come true”.
“There were some teams that wanted me like Sundowns, Chiefs but for myself I wanted to move away from home,” Mokwana told Taraji + TV.
“To get some more exposure, we all know in Africa that Esperance is one of the biggest teams in the world, so I wanted to come here and experience it.
“I’m a winner, I’m a player that likes to play on the line takes on the defenders and create some opportunities for my teammates and score some goals for myself.
“Everyone since I got here, form the airport to the hotel, and when I got to meet the players it was a wonderful experience.
“Even the fans. They’ve got such a great fanbase which I really look forward to playing under them in the stadium.
“I feel really great. It’s like a dream come true because I’ve always dreamt of playing [CAF] Champions League, Club World Cups.
“Me coming here it’s a dream come true and I have to give my all so I can continue working for Taraji so we can at least win all of them.
“Everyone at home. Some actually, think it’s a big move but I think it’s a really great move.
“To play for one of the biggest teams in the world and hopefully I can continue working hard so that I can open doors for the ones that are back home so that they can also come here and enjoy.
“To the fans I would like to say thank you for welcoming me with love and care. I promise you that I’ll give my all in the field and I’ll die for the badge.”
