Renowned for his dazzling performances at Kasi festive tournaments, Xolani ‘Blackberry’ Nkala is embarking on a new chapter following his departure from Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM), the relegated Motsepe Foundation Championship side.
Having spent the previous season with TTM, the 27-year-old gained popularity among the club’s supporters, showcasing his skills in 21 appearances across various competitions. Nkala, who had previously played for the now-defunct Mbombela United from 2017 to 2019, returned to the professional scene after three seasons in amateur football.
Reflecting on the past season, Nkala expressed gratitude for the support he received, acknowledging the challenges and triumphs faced by the team. He shared, “It was a great season; we had our ups and downs, but we fought until the end. Personally, it was also a great season because it’s been a long time since I played in a professional set-up.”
Acknowledging the love and support from fans, Nkala thanked TTM for the opportunity, stating, “I appreciate everything they did for me.”
Looking ahead to his future in football, Nkala remained tight-lipped about a potential offer from the Motsepe Foundation Championship. However, he emphasized his determination to play in the DStv Premiership, stating, “Whenever the offer is good, I will go for it. My aim is to play in the DStv Premiership, and I won’t stop working hard to achieve that.”
As TTM faces the challenge of rebuilding, with the departure of players such as Luvolwethu Mpeta, Mthokozisi Nene, and Thabiso Nkoana, Nkala remains optimistic about the next phase of his career.