In this edition of In The Spotlight, KickOff catches up with former Orlando Pirates player Sepeke Manamela.
Growing up, who was your idol and why?
"Growing up, I looked up to my brother Jesiah Manamela, who I followed after. He was a talented footballer, even though he never turned professional. He played similarly to Zane Moosa."
Which club did you grow up supporting and why?
"I supported Kaizer Chiefs because they had almost all my favourite players. My brother was also a big fan of Kaizer Chiefs. I wanted to emulate Shakes Kungwane, who was a left-footer, but ironically ended up playing against them. I always aimed to beat them because I believed that Chiefs signed every player who gave them a tough time. However, I am now a devoted fan of Orlando Pirates."
How did your breakthrough into top-flight football come about?
"I was supposed to sign with Bidvest Wits FC, but Orlando Pirates captured my heart, and I chose to join them."
Who was your best friend in football?
"Happy Jele was my best friend."
What do you dislike about football?
"Injuries. I believe you can only reach your full potential if you can avoid them. My career was significantly affected by injuries."
Who is your favourite player in South Africa at the moment?
"Oswin Appollis at Polokwane City."
If you could join any club in South Africa right now, which club would it be?
"I would choose Magesi FC. They play as a team and have a strong will to win. They function collectively and don't rely on a star player."
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
"Brazil. Most South African players share a similar style of play with them. Unfortunately, in South Africa, there is a lack of nurturing for talent. If I had been raised in Brazil, I might have had the opportunity to play for clubs like Barcelona."