Former Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United player Lebogang Manyama has announced his retirement from football at the age of 32. This is due to a knee injury that has been troubling him for some time.

He has been out of action since March 2022 after being released by Kaizer Chiefs.

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“After being miraculously misdiagnosed with MCL when in fact I had torn my ACL and made it worse whilst rehabilitating the wrong places, today marks a very sad day for me as I have to call time on my football chapter as a player,” announced Manyama.

“It’s one I take with my head held high. Never did I think I would be so blessed to showcase my talent and meet so many wonderful souls along the way.

“And for that, I want to thank my family for the undying support from when I was a lil’ boy kicking about in Alexandra,” he said.

“Thanks to all the junior teams I played for in Alex N and Balfour Park football club. Secondly, I would like to thank @map__gamesalex @cmaphalla @therealpitsomosimane for the opportunity. FC Alex without you there’s no Lebogang Manyama.

LEBOGANG MANYAMA ANNOUNCE RETIREMENT FROM FOOTBALL

“I would like to thank Cape Town Spurs, Cape Town City, Mpumalanga Black Aces, SuperSport United, Kaizer Chiefs and everyone associated with these wonderful institutions for the opportunity. I enjoyed all of it, the good and bad days, the ups and downs at the end of the day,” he said.

 “Life-long memories and bonds were made. To everyone that cheered my name, criticised me, advised me, looked up to me. Even those that are still gonna criticise me after this.

EX-KAIZER CHIEFS STAR CUT CAREER SHORT

“Thank you I am because of all of you. To all my ex-teammates, coaches opponents everyone associated with this wonderful game. It’s been an honour to be able to compete in this era of so many special players once again.

“And lastly thank you Lord for the talent and allowing me to showcase it over n over again. As I go in for my fourth surgery on this knee I ask for your protection once again there are many of you I didn’t mention ASANTE Sana – see u guys very soon SKOMRADA.”

Manyama has played for teams such as Mpumalanga Black Aces, Cape Town City, Kanyaspor and Ajax Cape Town.