Former professional footballer Edward Manqele, who hails from Randfontein in Gauteng, recently shared a candid and heartfelt reflection on his football career and the lessons he’s learned from it. Manqele, who had an eventful career in South African football, expressed a deep concern about the difficulties he faced in the game and how those experiences would shape his perspective on his sons’ future in football.
Speaking to The Herald, Manqele, who is a father of two, made it clear that he would not encourage his children to follow in his footsteps and pursue professional football. “Given everything I’ve gone through in football, I don’t think I would allow [my sons] to play soccer professionally,” he confessed. “I would rather they focus on their education first, and we’ll take it from there. What I experienced in football was traumatic, and I wouldn’t want them to go through the same struggles.” He further elaborated on the emotional toll the sport took on him, highlighting the darker side of professional football: “When you don’t get regular playing time, it affects you mentally. Some people cope with that by turning to alcohol, drugs, or surrounding themselves with negative influences. It’s a difficult environment, and I wouldn’t want my children to face that kind of pressure.”
Manqele’s words reflect the harsh realities of a football career, especially for players who struggle to secure a starting position or face long periods on the bench. For many players, these challenges can lead to mental health issues, poor decision-making, and sometimes a spiral into destructive habits. His advice to his sons emphasizes the importance of education and building a stable future beyond the uncertainties of professional sport.
Edward Manqele’s own journey in football began in the dusty streets of Randfontein, where he first developed his love for the game. He started his playing career at the local Liverpool FC in Randfontein before moving to Trabzon FC, where he continued his development as a young talent. His breakthrough into professional football came when he joined Free State Stars, where he began to showcase his potential and earned recognition in the South African football scene.
Manqele’s career trajectory saw him move to some of South Africa’s biggest football clubs, including Mamelodi Sundowns, Moroka Swallows, Chippa United, and Kaizer Chiefs. His time at these top-tier clubs was marked by some memorable moments, but also the challenges of competition for a regular spot in the starting lineup. At Kaizer Chiefs, known for its massive fanbase and pressure to deliver, Manqele faced the intense spotlight that often accompanies being a part of one of the country’s most famous clubs. Despite these obstacles, Manqele’s determination and talent earned him his place in South African football history.
After his time at Kaizer Chiefs, Manqele had stints back at his former clubs, Moroka Swallows and Chippa United, before he started winding down his career in the lower divisions. He spent his final years playing for clubs such as TTM, Royal Eagles, Real Kings, and Pretoria Callies, where he continued to offer experience and leadership, even as he navigated the challenges of playing in less high-profile teams.
Throughout his career, Manqele’s ability to score goals—especially as a poacher—earned him a reputation as a clinical finisher in the box. However, his career was also shaped by the realities of a professional footballer’s life, including periods of frustration, injuries, and the emotional toll of being sidelined. These experiences played a major role in shaping his views on football, particularly when it comes to his children’s future in the sport.
Today, Manqele’s legacy in South African football remains significant. His rise from humble beginnings to playing for some of the biggest clubs in the country is a testament to his talent and resilience. However, as he reflects on his journey, it’s clear that he values the lessons he learned from the more difficult parts of his career just as much as the highlights. For Manqele, the most important takeaway from his time in football is the need to protect mental and emotional well-being and to prepare for a life beyond the game.
His decision to steer his sons away from professional football is a reflection of the lessons he’s learned and the desire to ensure that they have the opportunities and stability he feels are necessary for a fulfilling life. In today’s world, where the pressure on young athletes is greater than ever, Manqele’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of balance—both in football and in life.
As Manqele looks back on his career, he does so with a sense of pride in his accomplishments but also with a clear understanding of the sacrifices and hardships that come with being a professional footballer. His legacy isn’t just defined by his goals and matches played, but also by the wisdom he imparts on the next generation.
