Former Super Eagles winger Ejike Uzoenyi has opened up about one of the biggest decisions of his football career, revealing why he chose to sign for Mamelodi Sundowns instead of fierce South African rivals Orlando Pirates after his breakout performances for Nigeria.
Uzoenyi became one of Africa’s most sought-after players following his outstanding displays at the 2014 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in South Africa. Although Nigeria finished third, the winger’s creativity, dribbling ability and attacking flair earned him the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award, attracting interest from several clubs across the continent.
Speaking about the transfer saga, the former Enugu Rangers star admitted that choosing between two of South Africa’s biggest clubs was far from straightforward.
“I chose Sundowns back then because I would still choose them now despite that I didn’t have the best time with them. They have a foreign tradition and not just South African tradition, and Pitso Mosimane was a top coach and good human being,” Uzoenyi said.
According to the former Nigerian international, the opportunity to work under celebrated coach Pitso Mosimane played a major role in his decision. He also believed Sundowns’ multicultural environment would make it easier for a foreign player to adapt and succeed.
Despite arriving with high expectations, Uzoenyi struggled to establish himself at Sundowns due to injuries and stiff competition for places. His spell at the club fell short of the promise he had shown during Nigeria’s successful international campaigns.
Before his move to South Africa, Uzoenyi had already made his mark with the Super Eagles. He was part of the squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) under the late Stephen Keshi, and later represented Nigeria at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Although his playing time at AFCON was limited, his performances at CHAN significantly boosted his reputation on the continental stage.
Looking back, the former winger said he has no regrets about choosing Mamelodi Sundowns over Orlando Pirates, even though his time with the Pretoria-based club did not unfold as he had hoped. His remarks offer fresh insight into one of the most talked-about transfer decisions involving a Nigerian player in South African football.
