In a recent turn of events, Orlando Pirates’ star player, Patrick Maswanganyi, has addressed the comments made by South African football legend Jomo Sono, which left many people talking.
A few months ago, when asked if Maswanganyi deserved the No.10 jersey at Pirates due to his dazzling performances, Sono made an unexpected remark that stirred some controversy.
He compared Maswanganyi to an ant, suggesting that it was unfair to compare him to an “elephant” like himself during his prime.
At the time, Maswanganyi had been in outstanding form for Pirates, even drawing comparisons to Sono in his playing days.
However, Sono’s comparison seemed to dismiss the young star’s abilities.
Now, Maswanganyi has opened up about how those words affected him and why he feels a different approach could have been taken by the legend.
Maswanganyi Responds to Sono’s Words
Reflecting on Sono’s words, Maswanganyi admitted that he was taken aback by the comparison.
He acknowledged that while he didn’t expect to receive support from everyone, especially considering the nature of the comment, he did expect better from someone like Sono, who was a prominent figure in the club’s history.
“You can’t compare an ant to an elephant, that’s what I remember,” Maswanganyi shared in an interview featured in the Pirates’ documentary Bucs Camp.
“Maybe that’s because he hasn’t seen the kind of person I am,” he added, implying that Sono didn’t fully understand his approach to the game.
Maswanganyi went on to explain his attitude toward football: “I don’t play football to prove anything to anyone or to show people what I’m capable of.
I think I get onto the pitch to enjoy football and to win.”
A Call for Support Over Criticism
Maswanganyi didn’t hold back in expressing his disappointment at the lack of support from someone who should have been an inspiration.
He explained that, despite the criticism, he believes that players should lift each other up, especially those who follow in the footsteps of legends like Sono.
“As a person, you shouldn’t look down on anyone regardless of who you are and what you do,” said Maswanganyi.
“For the fact that I play for the same team you played for and did well in, I think a person like him should instead be supportive so that we can also believe we can reach his heights.”
He emphasized the importance of guidance and encouragement, stating that players should aim to surpass those who came before them.
“We’re here to try outdo those before us, and many will still come to surpass us,” he said, reflecting on the passing of the torch in football.
The Importance of Mentorship and Respect in Football
Maswanganyi also pointed out that if veterans like Sono fail to support and teach the next generation of players the right way to treat each other, future players might adopt a similar mindset.
“If he can’t teach us to treat the next Orlando Pirates players right, we won’t want to either.
We’ll feel like we’re just returning the favour for how we were treated,” he warned.
In his closing words, Maswanganyi called for more mentorship and respect for up-and-coming talent.
His message highlights not only the value of footballing skills but also the importance of maintaining a positive and supportive environment for young players who will eventually shape the future of the game.
Final Thoughts
Maswanganyi’s response to Jomo Sono’s comparison underscores a wider conversation about how legends should inspire rather than diminish the next generation of footballers.
It’s a reminder that support and encouragement go a long way in building a stronger, more united team, especially for those who aspire to reach the heights of those who came before them.