AmaZulu land Kutumela as Richards Bay snap up Knox Mutizwa

AmaZulu have strengthened their frontline with the signing of experienced striker Thabiso Kutumela, while Richards Bay have secured the services of former Golden Arrows forward Knox Mutizwa in a double boost for KwaZulu-Natal clubs.

Kutumela, 32, arrives at Usuthu fresh from representing Bafana Bafana at the African Nations Championship in Kenya. 

The seasoned striker, who has previously turned out for Orlando Pirates, Maritzburg United and Mamelodi Sundowns, will wear the iconic jersey number 10 in Arthur Zwane’s side.

Club president Sandile Zungu was full of praise for the new arrival, backing him to make an immediate impact.

“We are very pleased to welcome Thabiso Kutumela into the club. He is an accomplished striker. When he was at Maritzburg United, he competed for the league’s top goal-scorer award.

“We trust Kutumela will hit the ground running at Usuthu. We welcome him with warm hands,” said Zungu

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AmaZulu have been monitoring Kutumela for some time, and Zungu revealed that his acquisition had been on the cards since his days at Maritzburg. 

He is expected to play a central role in Zwane’s plans as the Durban outfit sharpen their finishing during the international break.

The Limpopo-born striker was equally thrilled to seal the deal, admitting that a move to AmaZulu had been a long time coming.

“I am so happy that this move has finally come about. This was not the first time AmaZulu showed interest in me – I remember back when I was at Maritzburg United before joining Sundowns, they enquired about my services. It didn’t happen then, but I’m glad it has materialised now,” said Kutumela.

“My aim is to help the team win trophies and finish higher on the log than last season. In football, anything is possible, and every team has its objectives. Mine is to play my part in achieving them.”

Meanwhile, Richards Bay have also boosted their attack by landing Mutizwa, who left Golden Arrows this week after a seven-year stay. 

According to iDiskiTimes, the Zimbabwean forward is set to link up with the Natal Rich Boyz after training with Durban City for several weeks.

Mutizwa, who netted 63 goals and contributed 23 assists in 231 appearances for Arrows, had been close to signing for City before Richards Bay swooped in. 

His arrival comes at a critical moment following the departure of Yanela Mbuthuma to Orlando Pirates.

The former Bidvest Wits striker is expected to add experience and firepower to Ronnie Gabriel and Papi Zothwane’s side as they look to avoid another season flirting with relegation.

KwaZulu-Natal fans can now look forward to seeing both Kutumela and Mutizwa carrying the goal-scoring burden for their respective sides as the Betway Premiership season takes shape.