‘I can promise that I will give my all for the jersey,’ new Stellenbosch FC signing Lesiba Nku said. Photo: Stellenbosch FC/X
Stellenbosch FC’s recruitment and scouting strategy has long been admired, and the deadline-day signing of Lesiba Nku from champions Mamelodi Sundowns further enhanced that reputation.
The 28-year-old winger Nku did not find favour with Sundowns’ new coach Miguel Cardoso, and has not played this season.
In stark contrast, he was a regular team member under previous coach Rulani Mokwena, and was a key player in the squad that won back-to-back league titles and the African Football League.
Stellenbosch first set their sights on Nku two seasons ago, but bided their time to pounce. The club’s CEO Rob Benadie welcomed the player after they also signed TS Galaxy midfielder Thato Khiba.
“Lesiba is a player we have admired for some time, and we are excited to bring him to Stellenbosch FC,” said Benadie.
“His arrival underpins our commitment to strengthening the team with players of the highest calibre, and do not doubt that his quality will add a new dimension to our attacking options.”
Nku is renowned for his technical ability and dynamic attacking play. Stellenbosch club captain and long-serving goalkeeper Lee Langeveldt said the club had tracked the winger’s progress for almost two years.
“We’ve been trying to sign him for over 20 months,” told the media at the midweek Nedbank Cup draw in Randburg.
“For me, it shows that lots of planning goes into the club and who we want to recruit. Full credit to the recruiting department and the coaches.
“We’ve lost many players, but we always bring quality back. We know about his quality. Hopefully by the weekend, he can play, and I’m sure he will give us some goals because we need goals.”
Apart from playing for Sundowns, Nku had previous stints with Marumo Gallants and Polokwane City.
He played in the CAF Confederation Cup alongside Stellenbosch defender Ismael Toure.
Lesiba Nku's first words as a Stellenbosch FC player ⬇️
— Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) January 29, 2025
Stellenbosch have awarded Nku with the No 7 jersey previously worn by former captain Deano van Rooyen, who has transferred to Orlando Pirates.
Nku could be in line to make his debut for the club in Saturday’s Premiership clash against Sekhukhune United at the Danie Craven Stadium (3.30pm kick-off).
Nku is delighted to be thrust into action again after kicking his heels on the sidelines for some time.
“I’m happy to be at Stellenbosch FC, and I’m looking forward to playing football and doing my best for the club,” he said.
“Everyone has been very welcoming, so I’m excited to finally make a start.
“Stellenbosch is a good club and the way the team plays, using a lot of speed and fast players, suits my style of play.
“We’re still competing in the Nedbank Cup, and pushing in the league and the CAF Confederation Cup, so I hope to use my experience to challenge in these competitions.
“The fans can expect to see the same Lesiba Nku as they know, and even more now, because I’m hungrier to play.
“I can’t wait to meet them all and to play at the Danie Craven Stadium, and I can promise that I will give my all for the jersey.”
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