Shemeles Bekele: Discipline and determination driving Mechal's midfield maestro
- Omna Taddele
- Apr 22
- 2 min read
Mechal SC midfielder Shemeles Bekele says that his strong work ethic helps him stay fit and perform well in the Ethiopian Premier League. The former Ethiopian international returned to his home country last season after spending several years playing in Egypt.
Speaking to Soccer Ethiopia regarding his current fine form, the goal scoring midfielder stated he is reminded of his past self:
“I do my job. When you respect your job, God helps you. I do what I am supposed to do. I support my club and colleagues. It is good that I have reached this tally of goals. I am being reminded of my past. I am happy,” said the former Hawassa Ketema and Saint George player.
With 10 goals in the top flight, Bekele is now tied for second on the list. Eritrean striker Ali Sulieman leads the chart with 12 goals. Bekele explains his work ethic and discipline helps him to perform well in the league. “If you protect your body, you can play better. It is all about capitalizing on your opportunities. Your life outside of football is very important. You have to focus on your recovery and nutrition too.”
Mechal currently sit fourth in the league with 38 points, trailing leaders Ethiopian Insurance by 13 points. After a significant spending spree in the summer of 2024, the army side was tipped as title contenders. However, that dream faded midway through the season. Bekele acknowledged there’s still room for improvement. “You can start the league on a bright note, but things can go wrong midway. That is football. However, there is time.”
Following his retirement from international football, Bekele focused more on his club football. Bekele’s career included stops in Libya, Sudan and most notably Egypt apart from his home country. He is well known for his influential time at Egyptian club Petrojet where he produced 30 goals and 10 assists in 130 matches.
Mechal’s hope to win silverware this season lies in the Ethiopian Cup where they recently qualified for the semifinals. Bekele, who has bagged three cup goals thus far, will be key for Gebrekristos Birara’s side in the next matches.
