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South Africa legendary football figure Jomo Sono has lifted the lid on the intricate details surrounding Thembinkosi Lorch’s move from Orlando Pirates to Mamelodi Sundowns in January.
Sono disclosed that his nephew, Rulani Mokwena, formerly head coach of Sundowns, had consulted him about the potential signing of Lorch.
However, Sono revealed that the deal faced resistance from a “big chief” at Sundowns, in reference to the sporting director, Flemming Berg.
Berg is said to have had concerns about Lorch’s age and the financial implications of investing in a player over 30.
Sono, wary of becoming embroiled in the club’s internal politics, advised Mokwena to fight for Lorch if he truly believed in the player’s value. Ultimately, Lorch did sign for Sundowns.
The Free State-born star, who turns 31 next week, made 20 appearances in all competitions for Sundowns between February and May. He featured 10 times in the DStv Premiership, four in the Nedbank Cup and six in the Caf Champions League. Lorch scored six goals and provided three assists.
“He (Rulani) discussed it with me. The big chief there! The white man, what’s his name? He (Berg) didn’t want Lorch because he felt that Lorch was over age. You can’t invest so much money in a player who is over 30,” Sono said on Marawa Sports Worldwide.
“And then I said to him (Rulani), ‘Look, I can’t get involved in the Sundowns politics. It is difficult to advise you on this one. I don’t want to get involved. The moment I open my mouth, it will be on the back, middle and front pages (in the newspapers).
“‘I don’t want to be involved. It is your decision. You want him; you fight for him. If you want something, you fight for it. If you don’t want it, you don’t fight for it.”
This revelation sheds light on the complex negotiations and decision-making processes involved in high-profile player transfers. It also highlights the influence of age in football, with clubs often hesitant to invest heavily in older players despite their experience and potential contributions to the team.
Mokwena has since left Sundowns, and the issue of Lorch is suspected to have caused the fall out. He is now coaching in Morocco. — farpost.co.za
Online Reporter