Azerbaijani Turan Manafov: ‘Why I joined Stellenbosch FC’

Stellenbosch FC’s new signing Turan Manafov from Azerbaijan has explained why he signed for the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) team.

The 27-year-old European defender was unveiled as the new addition to the Betway Premiership club on Wednesday.

The former Azerbaijani youth international explained to his European country’s news outlet sportnews.az the rationale behind his move to Stellenbosch FC.

“They wanted me last summer as well. I was also planning to live as a legionnaire. That’s why I made such a decision. This is a new challenge for me,” he is quoted as saying.

Manafov further told Stellenbosch’s website that he was looking forward to adapting to South Africa’s fast-paced style of play.

“I’ve noticed that games are played at a faster pace in South Africa than in Azerbaijan, although both countries have good leagues, so I’m looking forward to testing myself, and also to playing in a continental competition [Confederation Cup] where many stars have been produced,” he said.

Manafov is the PSL team’s second arrival from Europe. Stellenbosch recently also recruited Belgian defender Henri Stanic from Maltese Premier League side Balzan FC.

The duo from Europe has joined fellow new arrivals at the club, including defender Siviwe Nkwali and striker Muzomuhle Khanyi.

Barker has added new players to his team after releasing defenders Brian Onyango, Liam De Kock, midfielder Sinhle Nduli and striker Shaakir Ahmed during the off-season break.

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