In this edition of Negotiating Behind The Season, former Orlando Pirates player Mandla Zwane shares the details of his move to the Buccaneers with KickOff.
How did you find out Pirates were interested in you?
"I was promoted to the first team in 1993, but I had joined their development program in 1987. When I got promoted to the Pirates' first team, players like Nick 'Bazooka' Seshweni, Bashin Mahlangu, Teboho Moloi, Botsotso Makhanya, Oupa Mabuza, and Dan Malesela were already there.
"Although I was part of the Pirates reserve side, like most footballers at that time, I participated in the Godfrey Moloi Games. That's where one of the Pirates officials, Sikhumbuzo Mthembu, noticed my talent and realized they had a potential gem. He recommended me to the chairman. I arrived at the club the same time as Williams Okpara, and the coach was Walter Da Silva."
Where did you meet for negotiations?
"I met at the Pirates office. There, I had my photos taken and filled out some NSL forms."
Who was present during the meeting?
"It was Bra Sikhumbuzo Mthembu and the late Pirates chairman, Sixty Mali. There was no discussion about contract details or salary negotiations. I was simply told, 'You are now a Pirates player.' It wasn't until the end of the month that I saw my salary, which was R500. To be honest, it was a substantial amount in 1993. My salary increased to R1000 within two months."
What surprised you about the process?
"Nothing surprised me. I had just finished my matric and was just happy to see my dream becoming a reality."
Did you get what you wanted?
"Like anyone, I had dreams. Fortunately, during that time, I was selected for the first-ever South Africa under-20 team, which was coached by Augusto Palacios, Shakes Mashaba, and Phil Setshedi."
What would you change if you could?
"I'd advise current players to ask for contracts and show them to their parents or lawyers. Players should be provided with proper accommodation.
"A player's welfare is crucial. In my case, I never had a stable home. One of the reasons I signed with Pirates was to earn enough money to buy a house for my parents and siblings. However, I was only able to buy them a home after my first return from Portugal."