The attacker has given reasons for turning down PSL heavyweights for Tunisian giants
Bafana Bafana forward Elias Mokwana has revealed that he turned down overtures from Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns for a new experience in North Africa.
Mokwena signed for Tunisian giants Esperance de Tunis this month after an impressive stint at Sekhukhune United but had the chance to join one of the PSL’s big clubs after Sundowns and Chiefs made an approach.
However, the need to broaden his horizon convinced him to choose Esperance over the South African heavyweights and believes he made the right decision.
‘I wanted to move away from home to get some more exposure’
“There were some teams who wanted me like [Mamelodi] Sundowns, [Kaizer] Chiefs, but for myself, I wanted to move away from home to get some more exposure,” Mokwana said following his unveiling at Esperance.
“I mean, we all know that Esperance is one of the biggest teams in the world. I wanted to come here and experience it and give my all.”
The attacker, who formerly turned out for ABC Motsepe side Platinum City Rovers, is believed to have cost Esperance R13 million and wants to repay that huge outlay with top performances in Tunisia.
“I’m a winner and a player that likes to play along the lines and to take on defenders,” Mokwana added.
‘I can keep working hard to open doors for those players back home’
“To create some opportunities for my teammates while also scoring goals myself. Everyone [has been welcoming], since I arrived, from the airport to the hotel and when I met the players it was a wonderful experience.
“Even the fans, the club has such a great fanbase and I am really looking forward to playing in front of them at our stadium.
“I feel great, and this is a dream come true as I’ve always wanted to play in the CAF Champions League and Club World Cup. So hopefully, I can keep working hard to open doors for those players back home who could also potentially seal moves to the club.”
Mokwana made 65 appearances for Sekhukhune, scoring six goals, while providing seven assists while he has four caps for Bafana Bafana.
