In this edition of Negotiating Behind The Scenes, former Mamelodi Sundowns fan-favourite Manqoba "Shakes" Ngwenya reveals what Dr. Patrice Motsepe told him ahead of his big move to the Tshwane giants.
Who did you sign for?
"I signed for Sundowns somewhere around 2006 and 2007. I joined them from Wits. I think I joined at the beginning of the season."
How did you find out?
"I was receiving calls from 'Mambush' [Daniel Mudau], Peter Koutroulis. That was before the whole deal was done.
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"They kept telling me how much the new man coming in, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, wanted me to join Mamelodi Sundowns."
Where did you meet?
"We met in a hotel in Sandton. It wasn't a difficult one though because I always admired Sundown's style of play. So, for me, joining Sundowns was like a dream come true."
Who was there?
"I think Bra Alex [Shakoane] was also there, as well as Patrice Motsepe and the late board member Peter Manda.
"Patrice told me how much he loved the way I played, that he had been watching me play."
What surprised you?
"The huge difference in the salary I was going to get. It was so big! Also, it was the first time Wits had made so much money from selling a player. Everyone was happy with the deal."
Did you get what you wanted?
"Of course, I was happy with everything. I was excited to join a team that had so many players that I idolized, the likes of Roger Feutmba, Eric Ramasike, Charles Motlohi and the rest. Just the prospect of sharing a dressing room with these players gave me joy."
Did you see out the contract?
"To be honest, I can't remember [for] how long the contract was, but I know that I stayed there for four years and extended again."
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What you would change?
"I never had any issues with my contract at Sundowns, but every player would complain about not getting enough game-time push for a move. That's normal. So, I would change anything, to be honest."