Golden Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi has lavished praise on his in-form winger Siyanda Ndlovu, describing him as one of the most complete young players in South African football and calling for his inclusion in the Bafana Bafana setup.
Formerly known as Mthanti, the 22-year-old attacker has been a revelation for Abafana Bes’thende this season.
Blessed with pace, technical flair, and impressive endurance, Ndlovu has played a starring role in Arrows’ strong start to the Betway Premiership campaign.
His consistency has not gone unnoticed by his coach, who believes national team selectors should be paying close attention.
With Bafana Bafana having recently sealed qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and preparing for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in December, Mngqithi feels Ndlovu’s time is now.
“This boy is just a marvel for me and in many ways. That’s why I even said it earlier and I looked like a fool when I said,” Mngqithi said.
“He’s definitely a player that should be looked at for the national team. He’s one of those players that define our football. When I look at him and I see all the players that are in the national team and other players that have gotten an opportunity to go out of the country, this boy deserves it all.”
Ndlovu has already contributed four goals and four assists in all competitions this season — a return that reflects both his creativity and growing maturity.
His dynamism on the flanks has given Arrows a sharper attacking edge, while his decision-making and defensive work rate have also improved.
“Physically he surprises you,” Mngqithi continued.
“He covers so much ground with springs and intensity, and he consistently gives you that — and on top of that, he hardly makes a mistake.”
The Arrows coach revealed that one of Ndlovu’s biggest areas of improvement has been his positioning. Once a player who often drifted out of play, he now operates with greater awareness, frequently finding dangerous pockets of space.
“One of the things he lacked last season was playing in between the lines and he’s improved that this season,” said Mngqithi.
“He’s created and scored vital goals for us this season, and he’s amongst the best in the country at that at the moment.”
Ndlovu’s rise has been emblematic of Arrows’ renewed ambition under Mngqithi.
The Durban outfit have found balance between youth and experience, with the coach’s emphasis on discipline and tactical intelligence allowing young talents like Ndlovu to thrive.
For Mngqithi, the winger’s performances are proof that South African football continues to produce homegrown players capable of excelling on bigger stages — if given the right platform and recognition.
At just 22, Ndlovu’s trajectory suggests he could soon follow in the footsteps of fellow KwaZulu-Natal stars who made the step up to international football. And if his coach’s conviction is anything to go by, his name may soon be among those called to represent the country.
