Ngezi Platinum plot squad boost after FIFA ban, set sights on African Stars star Doeseb

Ngezi Platinum Stars are already plotting to bolster their squad for the 2027 season after seeing their FIFA ban lifted, with African Stars midfield maestro Lawrence Doeseb emerging as a top target, South African publication iDiski Times has revealed.

The 2023 Champions were previously banned by FIFA over issues related to coaches Bongani Mafu and Benjamin Mwaruwari, a sanction that prevented the Mhondoro-Ngezi-based club from flexing their muscles on the transfer market this year.

During the ban, the club could not register new players and had to find alternative solutions. Despite that setback, Ngezi Platinum managed to stay competitive by utilizing their developmental side, Ngezi Platinum Stars Under-19, which competes in the ZIFA Northern Region Soccer League.

Ngezi Platinum Stars FC players celebrating a goal at Baobab stadium. Picture by Ngezi Platinum Stars

NGEZI PLATINUM STARS HOPING TO BOLSTER THEIR SQUAD

The ban has since been lifted, and the former Zimbabwean champions are now preparing to be active in the market again. As per the same publication, one of the names high on the wishlist is Namibian champions African Stars’ star midfielder Lawrence Doeseb.

The 23-year-old Namibian international caught the eye of several clubs in South Africa and the surrounding region after putting in outstanding performances against Orlando Pirates in both legs of the CAF Champions League preliminary round.

Head coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva is understood to be an admirer of Doeseb and wants him to add creativity and steel to his midfield for the new campaign.

While several teams have shown interest, no official offer has been tabled to African Stars yet. Ngezi Platinum have at this stage only made an inquiry, with no formal negotiations having taken place.

Doeseb has been named in the Namibian national team squad that will play back-to-back AFCON qualifiers against Cameroon in mid-November, further underlining his growing stock.

For the 2027 season, Ngezi Platinum will be able to flex their muscles on the transfer market again as they look to reclaim domestic dominance and make a mark on the continent.

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