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Highlanders in advanced talks with Ariel Sibanda
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Highlanders Football Club are in advanced discussions with their long-serving captain, Ariel Sibanda, regarding the extension of his contract, which is set to expire on December 31. This comes as the club looks to retain the services of the veteran goalkeeper, despite the departure of goalkeepers coach Daniel Khumalo, whose contract will not be renewed at the end of this year.
Earlier this year, Sibanda had hinted that the current season could be his last in professional football, leading to speculation about his future. Despite this, the 34-year-old has attracted the attention of several clubs, including Premier League newcomers Scottland of Harare, who are reportedly in the market for experienced players. However, Highlanders are determined to keep the club legend, who has given 15 years of his career to the club.
Sources suggest that Sibanda has been offered a coaching role with the junior teams, as it seems unlikely that he will continue as the first-choice goalkeeper next season. Nevertheless, Bosso are hopeful of securing his services for the foreseeable future.
"We are having positive talks with the player. The rest of the other issues surrounding Sibanda are just rumours," said Highlanders CEO Brian Moyo, dispelling any speculation surrounding the goalkeeper's future.
Sibanda has been an integral part of the Highlanders team for over 15 years, having made his debut for the senior team in 2009 after the departure of then-first-choice goalkeeper Washington Arubi. Since then, Sibanda has worn the number one jersey with distinction, becoming one of the most respected goalkeepers in Zimbabwean football.
However, this past season, Sibanda has found himself sidelined due to injury, with his replacements, Raphael Pitisi and Reward Muza, stepping into the limelight. Despite this, Sibanda's influence on and off the field has remained undeniable.
Throughout his career at Highlanders, Sibanda has won numerous trophies, including the 2019 Chibuku Super Cup, the 2013 Mbada Diamonds Cup, the BancABC Super 8, the NetOne-sponsored EasyCall Cup, and several Independence Cups. He has also been named Goalkeeper of the Year four times, cementing his place as one of the best goalkeepers in the country's history.
Despite his impressive trophy haul, the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) championship has eluded Sibanda during his long tenure at Bosso. However, Sibanda has always disputed the notion that he has not faced serious competition for his spot in the team, highlighting the challenges he faced from top goalkeepers such as Munyaradzi Diya and Njabulo Nyoni during his career.
As negotiations continue, Highlanders fans will be hoping that the club can secure the services of their captain for another chapter in his illustrious career.
Earlier this year, Sibanda had hinted that the current season could be his last in professional football, leading to speculation about his future. Despite this, the 34-year-old has attracted the attention of several clubs, including Premier League newcomers Scottland of Harare, who are reportedly in the market for experienced players. However, Highlanders are determined to keep the club legend, who has given 15 years of his career to the club.
Sources suggest that Sibanda has been offered a coaching role with the junior teams, as it seems unlikely that he will continue as the first-choice goalkeeper next season. Nevertheless, Bosso are hopeful of securing his services for the foreseeable future.
"We are having positive talks with the player. The rest of the other issues surrounding Sibanda are just rumours," said Highlanders CEO Brian Moyo, dispelling any speculation surrounding the goalkeeper's future.
Sibanda has been an integral part of the Highlanders team for over 15 years, having made his debut for the senior team in 2009 after the departure of then-first-choice goalkeeper Washington Arubi. Since then, Sibanda has worn the number one jersey with distinction, becoming one of the most respected goalkeepers in Zimbabwean football.
However, this past season, Sibanda has found himself sidelined due to injury, with his replacements, Raphael Pitisi and Reward Muza, stepping into the limelight. Despite this, Sibanda's influence on and off the field has remained undeniable.
Throughout his career at Highlanders, Sibanda has won numerous trophies, including the 2019 Chibuku Super Cup, the 2013 Mbada Diamonds Cup, the BancABC Super 8, the NetOne-sponsored EasyCall Cup, and several Independence Cups. He has also been named Goalkeeper of the Year four times, cementing his place as one of the best goalkeepers in the country's history.
Despite his impressive trophy haul, the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) championship has eluded Sibanda during his long tenure at Bosso. However, Sibanda has always disputed the notion that he has not faced serious competition for his spot in the team, highlighting the challenges he faced from top goalkeepers such as Munyaradzi Diya and Njabulo Nyoni during his career.
As negotiations continue, Highlanders fans will be hoping that the club can secure the services of their captain for another chapter in his illustrious career.
Source - The Sunday News
