Positive Developments for Mahlambi – Sportnow
Gavin Hunt, head coach of Durban City, has shared positive updates regarding Phakamani Mahlambi, who is currently being assessed by the club.
Hunt confirmed last week that Mahlambi, a former Mamelodi Sundowns striker, has been training with the team. Notably, Mahlambi hasn’t played in a professional match since September 2021, after suffering an Achilles tendon injury while on loan at Chippa United.
His last game took place on 25 September 2021, in a clash against Stellenbosch. Sundowns released him at the end of that season while he was still recovering from his injury.
A Coach-Player Bond
Hunt is dedicated to rejuvenating Mahlambi’s career, having originally given him his PSL debut with Bidvest Wits on 8 August 2015, when Mahlambi was just 17 years old.
He scored his first goal just three months later, helping Wits secure a 4-0 victory over Platinum Stars at Royal Bafokeng Stadium, prompting Hunt to famously liken him to the iconic Benni McCarthy.
Their partnership led to both a league title and the MTN8 win during the 2016/17 season. That year, Mahlambi won the Young Player of the Season award after scoring six goals in 18 appearances, which ultimately resulted in a move to Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
Hunt’s Views on Mahlambi’s Progress
After City’s draw against Golden Arrows at Chatsworth Stadium on Tuesday, Hunt was asked about Mahlambi’s development.
“He will keep training, right? You know what I mean. Just stay active and keep training,” Hunt stated. “If something happens, it happens. I’ve told him, and he gets it. There’s no problem. He’s accepted it, and he’s making progress in getting fit, and that’s all he can do.”
Hunt’s choice to give Mahlambi another opportunity has received significant praise from football fans. The coach, who has claimed four league titles, believes Mahlambi’s talents should not be underestimated, especially since he is still only 28 years old.
When asked about the positive signs in Mahlambi’s recovery, Hunt shared his optimism.
“He has definitely improved since his arrival,” Hunt affirmed. “There’s no doubt about it.”
During his time with Gavin Hunt at Wits, Mahlambi scored 11 goals and provided 12 assists in 37 matches across all competitions, with many of these contributions coming during the successful 2016/17 season.
