Online Reporter
Tadious Manyepo-Zimpapers Sports Hub
JAYDEN BAKARE said he made the humble move to join ZIFA Mashonaland Central Division 2B side Mutukwa Academy to improve his career.
The former Dynamos and CAPS United striker made a shock transfer to the ambitious Chiweshe-based team, who are leading the standings in their league, last month.
He had been sidelined, yet held on at struggling Premier Soccer League side Triangle United before negotiating his move away from the Lowveld.
But Bakare hadn’t been ignored due to a lack of effort for the perennial Premiership relegation fighters.
Despite lacking proper service to gun down opponents, he had been scoring under Lloyd Chitembwe, who was then replaced three months ago.
Despite interest from different top-flight teams, especially those in the same boat with Triangle and Division One teams, Mutukwa Academy offered him standard conditions, including sharing with him their ambitions.
“I think my confidence levels had been crushed and had hit rock bottom,” said Bakare.
“I really needed to start all over again. I met the Mutukwa Academy leadership, and they shared with me their ambitions and dreams.
“It all sounded very good to me. Their plan resonates with mine. I thought, yeah, I can revive my career there. They are very professional, and the conditions are very good. I am really happy to be there. I know I will benefit a lot by playing on this team.”
Bakare has already made his debut for the club, which is in a tight championship battle with Chiweshe rivals Rosa Pirates and Ngula Ngula.
Mutukwa Academy director Edward Mutukwa, who underlined his club’s intentions by recently appointing veteran coach Kifton “Somalia’’ Kadurira, said the club’s decision to take Bakare on board was motivated by the need to help the player resuscitate himself.
“I have known Jayden Bakare back from his days at Whawha when he was named the PSL Rookie of the Season, I think three, four years ago.
“That tells you a lot about his potential. When I realised that he was struggling, I personally called him in to give him the platform to revive his career.
“I am glad he is already enjoying himself, working hard under the leadership of gaffer Kadurira, whose credentials in dealing with grassroots and veterans is well documented.
“Bakare is enjoying his stay in Chiweshe, and I am sure he will play a big role in helping the team earn the ticket to Division One.”
There are several former PSL players in the ZIFA Mashonaland Central Division 2B trying to revive their careers while helping their current teams fight for the championship, including Rosa Pirates captain Tendai “Kule” Mutandi.
