Stellenbosch FC sign former Azerbaijan youth international

2024-2025 CAF Confederation Cup semifinalists Stellenbosch FC have once again reinforced their defence with a European signing. The South Africa team is strengthening its squad for yet another dance with Africa’s finest this season.

 

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The Betway Premiership outfit based in the Western Cape has signed former Azerbaijani youth international Turan Manafov.

Stellenbosch FC signals continental intentions

It is clear that coach Steve Barker learnt lessons from his team’s debut in the last Confederation Cup which saw them challenge established teams, including ousting previous holders Zamalek SC from Egypt. Stellenbosch eventually bowed out after losing to Simba SC of Tanzania in the semifinal.

Now, the PSL club seems determined to give it another try in the 2025-2026 Confederation Cup campaign with enough depth. In the team’s statement, Manafov did not hide his ambition to showcase his talent in the continental competition.

“The club has bolstered its defensive ranks by acquiring the services of former Azerbaijan youth international, Turan Manafov, who arrives in South Africa after a spell in his homeland with Kapaz,” Stellenbosch FC’s statement reads.

In reaction to his transfer to the Betway Premiership, the 27-year-old Manafov said he was looking forward to adapting to South Africa’s fast-paced style of play.

“I am very happy to join Stellenbosch FC,” Manafov said. “The club’s ideas and principles appealed to me, and I am excited to be with a team that is competing at the highest levels.

“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.”

A revamped squad

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 is beefing up his squad after creating space by releasing defenders Brian Onyango, Liam De Kock, midfielder Sihle Nduli and striker Shaakir Ahmed.

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