Gift Motupa faces challenging road back to PSL
Gift Motupa faces weight-loss challenges and budget hurdles at SuperSport United. Will he be able to get another contract?
Former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Gift Motupa faces a challenging road back into the Premier Soccer League (PSL). SuperSport United coach Gavin Hunt, who formerly coached Motupa at Bidvest Wits, has expressed doubts over the player’s immediate signing due to budget constraints.
MOTUPA’S DECLINE AND UNCERTAIN FUTURE
Motupa, once a prolific scorer, has struggled to replicate his early success. His four-year stint at Mamelodi Sundowns yielded only three goals in 22 appearances. Now a free agent at 29 years old, he hoped to reunite with his former coach, Gavin Hunt, at SuperSport United.
“Gift is training with us, but there is no money, no budget [to sign him],” admits Hunt. “He was overweight and had to lose some kilos.”
HURDLES TO OVERCOME
Hunt highlights the challenges faced by players who spend extended periods sidelined at big clubs. “When you go to big clubs, the squads are competitive… you’ve got to make a decision; prolong your career with less money or get bigger money and have a shorter career.”
ALSO READ: Khuliso Mudau injury weighs heavy on Mokwena
SuperSport United also recently passed on former Kaizer Chiefs players Khama Billiat and Eric Mathoho due to financial limitations.
HUNT: A GLIMMER OF HOPE FOR MOTUPA
Despite the current setback, there may be a future for Gift Motupa at SuperSport United. Hunt indicates a willingness to work with him for the rest of the season, potentially leading to a contract offer for the following season.
However, any deal will likely depend on SuperSport United’s financial situation at the end of the campaign.
MOTUPA’S SIDE PROJECT
While Gift Motupa’s professional playing career hangs in the balance, he has a side venture to keep him occupied. The Limpopo-born star recently purchased a SAFA SAB League team in his hometown, now named Thogoaneng United FC.