A South African footballer based in Malaga, Spain, has had an appetising opportunity thrown at him by his local club CD Almunecar City.
Thabang Matuka, 30, is in talks with director George Jermy about a "bigger role" within the structures – he told the Siya crew he was more than capable of juggling both his playing career and a significant role with the youth academy.
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"I have been the assistant coach of the u/23 side since last year before the pandemic stopped everything and a decision was taken to look further into my involvement with the club. I spoke to the director and at the moment we are looking at a bigger role – where I will be involved in terms of the set up with the academy and not just the u/23s," said Matuka.
The former Free State Stars, Maritzburg United and Bloemfontein Celtic left back is more than happy to take up a dual role, and is currently also in talks with the club over a contract extension having joined them as recent as August last year.
Check the gallery above for Matuka's action pictures
"I will still be playing for the senior team on Sundays and helping out the academy because their games are on Saturdays. I believe I have to get my coaching badges while I still have the opportunity, so that's part of the plan. And with me being involved in this kind of set up it makes things easier for me. But I will have to create the time to be able to do all of this and the club will give me great support," Matuka added.
"I think this is the right opportunity for me given my age as well. This is a country where football is regarded as the best sport and is taken seriously. I was always keen to see what is happening here and that's why I took the opportunity even when I had options in the PSL."
Matuka's one-year deal with the lower division club is coming to an end.
"We are also currently in discussions with the club regarding my contract because I had initially signed for one year. But the director has told me he would love to have me stay longer here and it was entirely up to me whether I stay or leave," he confirms.
"I've grown to love Spain and the culture here. We are working on something even beyond the playing days. But there is something my agency KeepActive Management is also working regarding other options."
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