New AmaZulu signing Bongani Zungu has confirmed that he made the decision to leave Mamelodi Sundowns at the end of last season. He explained that he was not happy with the African giants and prioritized his mental well-being.

Former coach Rulani Mokwena, however, was not in favor of Zungu’s departure. Ironically, Mokwena later left Sundowns himself to join Wydad Casablanca.  

Zungu featured in 30 matches for Sundowns last season, including the Nedbank Cup final loss to Orlando Pirates. In that match, he was famously nutmegged by Relebohile Mofokeng, who subsequently scored the winning goal.  

When asked about his decision to leave Sundowns, Zungu stated, “Yes, I felt it was time to leave. I made a decision for my own good and mental happiness. It wasn’t anything deep; it was a personal decision.”

Since the Nedbank Cup final on 1 June, Zungu has been without a club until his recent signing by AmaZulu. He joined the club alongside former Pirates defender Sandile Mthethwa.  

AmaZulu co-coach Vusi Vilakazi revealed that Friday was Zungu’s first training session with the club on the field, as they had previously focused on gym work. It remains uncertain whether Zungu will be ready to face his former club, Sundowns, at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday.

Zungu acknowledged that his surname and the club’s owner, Sandile Zungu, played a role in facilitating the move. However, he emphasized the importance of happiness:

“Well, not being a Zungu (that it worked in my favor), but as I just mentioned, happiness is important in life,” he said. 

“Obviously, in the last few months, I spoke to many clubs – in South Africa and outside of the South Africa. 

“I had time to think about what is going to make me happy and when I spoke to the president, and some of the guys here at AmaZulu, they told me where the club is, the environment, for me that was very appealing. 

“The president played a major role to try and get me to come here. I’m very happy and I’m grateful for this opportunity.”