Maswanganyi’s Manager Fires Back at Al-Khaldiya Exit Rumours: ‘This Is All Fake News’

South African footballer Patrick “Tito” Maswanganyi has come under the spotlight following speculation about his future at Bahraini club Al-Khaldiya SC, but his manager, Arnold Rankoko, has firmly denied reports that the midfielder has left the club.

Rumours circulated on social media over the weekend claiming that Maswanganyi had mutually terminated his contract with Al-Khaldiya following alleged disciplinary issues. However, Rankoko dismissed the claims as false, accusing unnamed individuals of attempting to damage the player’s reputation.

Speaking to KickOff on Monday afternoon, Rankoko insisted that Maswanganyi remained committed to the club and was preparing for their upcoming fixture.

“There is someone who clearly has it in for this boy. There is nothing of the sort at all,” Rankoko said, adding that the midfielder was preparing for Wednesday’s match.

He also pointed to Maswanganyi’s photographs on the club’s social media platforms as evidence that the player remained involved with the team.

Rankoko expressed frustration over the spread of the allegations, arguing that journalists and social media users should have contacted the player, the club or people close to him before publishing such claims.

He questioned whether anyone had produced documentary evidence to support the suggestion that Maswanganyi’s contract had been terminated.

The manager further defended the midfielder’s personality, describing him as a quiet individual whose reserved nature should not be confused with arrogance or indiscipline.

Rankoko compared Maswanganyi’s personality to that of French international Michael Olise and referred to former South African football stars Doctor Khumalo and Brian Baloyi, saying their behaviour away from the pitch differed from how they were perceived during matches.

He also suggested that negative publicity surrounding Maswanganyi in South Africa had contributed to the player’s decision to pursue opportunities abroad. Rankoko went as far as claiming that the midfielder would not return to South African football.

On the field, Rankoko said Maswanganyi had featured in all eight matches since joining Al-Khaldiya and had recorded two assists. He added that the player was focused on scoring his first goal and continuing to contribute to the team.

Al-Khaldiya, who were reported to be second in the Bahraini Premier League after six matches, were scheduled to face Al Wahda on Wednesday evening at 8:15 pm South African time.

Maswanganyi’s involvement in the fixture could provide a clearer indication of his current status at the club, although the final team selection would ultimately determine whether he features.

For now, Rankoko has rejected the exit reports, insisting that the speculation is unfounded and unfair to the midfielder.

Source;https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/2114992107580543198

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