Philani ‘Beefy’ Ncube
Ricky Zililo Senior Sports Reporter
NATIONAL Under-23 attacking midfielder Emmanuel Mandiranga and veteran defender Nyasha Mukumbi have completed moves to newly promoted Premier Soccer League side Bulawayo City.
Mukumbi and Mandiranga, 20, rejoin gaffer Philani “Beefy” Ncube, who coached them at How Mine in 2014.
The local authority bankrolled side has also been assessing right-back Morris Kadzola.
Mukumbi and Kadzola are meant to reinforce City’s defensive frailties.
Ncube said he was happy with Mukumbi’s performance in their 1-0 win against fellow PSL new boys Ngezi Platinum on Saturday.
Mukumbi partnered Brighton Dube in central defence against the platinum miners.
“In as far as preparations for the season are concerned I think we are almost there. Our squad is a mixture of experience and youngsters. We’ve added Mukumbi, not only because of his experience, but to give us other dimensions when building from the back. Having a solid backline is key for any squad.
Mandiranga has also joined us, but I can’t comment on Kadzola because he is contracted to How Mine,” said Ncube.
Mandiranga will compete for a starting place in the offensive side of midfield with the likes of Warren Dube, Eddie Nkulungo, Humphrey Ncube and Lewis Ncube.
City have experienced central midfielders in the form of Xolisani Moyo, Welcome Ndiweni, Edmore Muzanenhamo and Innocent Kutsanzira, who can easily switch from defensive mode to attacking.