Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Greg Etafia has completed a move to Tanzanian Premier League champions Young Africans SC after bringing an end to his successful five-year spell with South African side TS Galaxy, Footynaija.com reports.
Etafia joins the East African giants as their new goalkeeper coach ahead of the 26/27 season, with Young Africans looking to strengthen their technical department as they prepare to defend their domestic title and mount a challenge in the CAF Champions League.
The 43-year-old is one of several new additions to the club’s backroom staff following the appointment of South African tactician Manqoba Mngqithi as head coach. He will work alongside assistant coach Simo Dladla, set-piece specialist Kagisho Dikgacoi and performance analyst Yardaan Valodia.
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Reacting to his appointment, the former Nigeria international expressed his delight at joining one of East Africa’s biggest clubs while thanking TS Galaxy for allowing him to take the next step in his coaching career.
“I’m so excited to join Young Africans. They are a top club,” Etafia told Soccer Laduma.
“I’m grateful that the president gave me his blessings. I will give my best, and I’m just so excited.
“I’d like to thank TS Galaxy. I was with the club for five years, and the most important thing is to thank Mr Tim Sukazi, the president. He’s a fantastic man and did a lot for me.
“I’m so grateful to him and his family. Thanks also to the whole TS Galaxy family. Everyone at the club are very, very good people.”
A former Lobi Stars goalkeeper, Etafia enjoyed a lengthy playing career in South Africa with clubs like Moroka Swallows and Highlands Park before making a seamless transition into coaching. He also represented Nigeria at international level, earning four caps for the Super Eagles during his playing days.
Etafia will now be hoping to replicate the success he enjoyed in South Africa as Young Africans look to maintain their dominance in Tanzanian football while mounting a serious challenge in the CAF Champions League under Mngqithi next season.
