The Munetsi blueprint: Mason Mushore sets sights on Europe after AmaZulu move

New AmaZulu recruit Mason Mushore has expressed his desire to follow in the footsteps of compatriot Marshall Munetsi after completing his move to South Africa.

The 23-year-old defensive midfielder, who has one senior cap for the Zimbabwe national team, is settling into life at the Durban-based club as the second round of the Betway Premiership season gets underway. Mushore joined AmaZulu from Zimbabwean giants Highlanders, arriving with a growing reputation as one of the league’s most promising young midfielders.

He is the second Zimbabwean to sign for AmaZulu this season, following striker Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya, 23, who joined the club ahead of the campaign. The pair form part of a broader recruitment strategy aimed at adding youthful energy and depth to Arthur Zwane’s squad.

Mushore arrives highly rated from the Zimbabwean league and is viewed as one of the next bright stars among Zimbabwean players eager to make their mark in South Africa’s top flight. Over the years, several Zimbabwean internationals have used the Betway Premiership as a springboard to successful careers, both locally and abroad.

Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielders Tinashe Nengomasha and Willard Katsande are often cited as sources of inspiration, but Mushore has drawn motivation from the other side of Soweto, where Orlando Pirates once provided the platform for Munetsi’s rise. The former Highlanders man told the media he hopes to emulate Munetsi, who now plies his trade in the English Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Munetsi previously represented Orlando Pirates and Baroka FC before securing a move to French Ligue 1 outfit Reims in 2019. At the start of last season, he made a further leap by joining Wolves, where he has continued to establish himself at the highest level.

Mushore will have his first opportunity to impress in AmaZulu colours when Usuthu host TS Galaxy at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday. The fixture presents a chance for the midfielder to showcase his qualities in front of the Durban faithful. He is expected to play an important role in stabilising Zwane’s midfield, which already boasts considerable experience and quality.

AmaZulu’s options include Bongani Zungu, Mlondi Mbanjwa and Pule Ekstein, giving the technical team several combinations to consider as they chase consistency in the second half of the season. Speaking ahead of the match, Zwane welcomed the challenge of selecting his starting line-up as AmaZulu push to remain competitive near the top end of the table.

“What’s good about this moment is we have almost everyone available for selection, which is another headache for us but a good headache to have,” Zwane said. “It will bring out the best in us and build different combinations so we aren’t predictable. What’s key for us is to start the year on a positive note by collecting three points at home.”

For Mushore, Sunday’s encounter represents more than just a debut opportunity; it is the first step in a journey he hopes will mirror Munetsi’s path from South African football to Europe.