SPEED merchant Leeroy Murape has secured a contract with TelOne ahead of the 2025 season, reuniting him with his former coach, Herbert “Jompano” Maruwa.

Murape, who spent two seasons with ZPC Kariba, will join TelOne’s pre-season training today, where he will be introduced to his new teammates.

According to sources close to the player, Murape is eager to start his new challenge and is highly valued by his new employers, who are aware of his attributes.

Murape’s reunion with Maruwa is not surprising, given their past working relationship at Dynamos juniors and Black Rhinos. Maruwa coached Murape during his formative years at Dynamos juniors and their reunion at Black Rhinos was also successful.

“Murape is going to start training with the club tomorrow (today) where he is expected to be introduced to his new teammates,” said a close source.

“As a player, he is eager to kick-start and embrace the new challenge with vigour as he embraces a new environment and challenges altogether.

“We understand his new employers highly value the player and are aware of his attributes and what he can bring in a game of football and his impact.

“Murape has worked with coach Maruwa since his days at Dynamos juniors. Remember, Murape is also a product of Dynamos juniors and they were coached by Maruwa.

“They worked together at Black Rhinos again and it explains how key the coach was in bringing in the player.”

In a heartfelt farewell message on social media, Murape bid farewell to ZPC Kariba, thanking the club for the opportunity to play for them.

“Karibans, thank you so much for the last two amazing years. It has been a fantastic period being one of you.

“To the supporters, executives, my coaches and teammates, I can’t thank you enough for making my time here so wonderful, I will never forget it,” he said.