By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – International player Tony Machacha have been released by Mbabane Swallows alongside the duo of Albert Nkosana and Orion Samba, with Felix Badenhorst set to quits the club for Royal leopard.
Badenhorst spent half of last season out of action due to an injury, but he is reported to be set to start training with the police side this week. The former international, Sihlangu and Manzini Wanderers player was not registered for the CAF Champions League games by Mbabane Swallows. The 2023/24 MTN League Champions are set to face Mozambican side C. Fer Da Beira in the CAF Champions League. They will play on August 16 and 25.
“Mbabane Swallows Football Club, Eswatini’s oldest surviving Premier League club (est.1948) and current League Champions, officially confirm non-renewal of contracts for the following players, effective 1 July 2024, Albert Nkosana (Defender), Tony Machacha (Midfielder) and Orion Samba (Striker),” reads a statement released by the club.
Swallows also confirmed the official departure of goalkeeper Qiniso Nyawo who signed with Young Buffaloes and Neliswa Dlamini who joined Nsingizini Hotspurs.
“The team would also like to update supporters and stakeholders that we are still in consultation, engaging and negotiating with some of our players for contract renewals. Another factor that we need to manoeuvre around are some clauses which touch on the players’ employment – the club’s official retirement age for its players is 35 years.
However, in selected and exceptional cases, where an agreement has been reached with the player, this clause can be reviewed,” reads the statement.
Swallows said their new players will be unveiled after these recruitment processes have been completed.
“The club continues to work according to strategic aims and plans, which necessitate maintaining a consistent number of team players and staff in order to remain within financial budgets,” said the club.
