Former Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has revealed Iqraam Rayners was the only player he pushed for as a new signing at the club.
Mngqithi was sacked earlier in the week, with the club’s leadership feeling a change was needed, which led them to appoint Miguel Cardoso.
After he was relieved of his duties, Mngqithi spoke to Robert Marawa about a host of topics, including who is in charge of signing at the club.
He explained that the responsibility doesn’t just lie on one shoulder, with Sporting Director Flemming Berg, his assistant as well as analysts and the coach involved before the leadership signs it off.
Mngqithi also explained that by the time he took over from Rulani Mokwena, several signings were already done but he pushed for Stellenbosch FC striker Iqraam Rayners.
“I wouldn’t want to come out of this platform with that saying ‘no, no I didn’t know anything’ because then I would be lying and I don’t want to lie,” he said.
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“Yes, this initiative took place before me and when I got the opportunity, the only player that I personally requested from the club was Iqraam.
“That one is the player that I personally requested and pushed.
“Fortunately, I got the support of a lot of people within the club and that’s why it happened, and I appreciate that.”
Rayners has become an instant success at Chloorkop, scoring 10 goals in 14 games for his new club so far – more than any other player at Sundowns this season.
