Sekhukhune United captain Linda Mntambo has announced his retirement after playing at the highest level in South Africa for a decade.
The 37-year-old midfielder featured just three times for Babina Noko in the Betway Premiership this past season after suffering a fractured ankle against TS Galaxy on August 13.
Mntambo struggled with injuries since joining the Limpopo outfit from Orlando Pirates in July 2022, which saw him make just 59 appearances across all competitions in four years.
As a result, ‘Figo’ has decided to hang up his boots after 13 years as a professional player – a dream he realised upon signing for Roses United in 2013.
Mntambo went on to turn out for Jomo Cosmos, Chippa United and Pirates in the top tier of South African football, winning the MTN 8 trophy in his third season with the Buccaneers in 2022.
“I never thought this day would come so soon,” he said in a video on Instagram.
“Growing up as a young boy in Ezimhlophe, I’ve always wanted to turn professional, and having lived that dream since 2013 has been a journey worth celebrating.
“The biggest sacrifice I’ve had to make for my career is building a family and knowing that I will not be fully present dealing with my kids.
“I hope my kids will again look back at the career I’ve had and be proud of what Dad had to go through. Of what Dad built for the family.
“They say good dancers know when to leave the stage. As tough as it is, I’m going to miss the game, but I’ll never be lost to it.
“Today, I’m officially announcing my retirement from football. Officially hanging my boots. People would not know me today if it wasn’t for football.”
