Despite a difficult campaign with Rise and Shine, Maluleke has shone and Manaka says he has learned a lot from the former Black Leopards and SuperSport United man.
The 35-year-old has been a driving force for City in 2017/18, featuring in 27 matches in all competitions. A set-piece specialist, he has 11 assists this season but is yet to find the back of the net, having scored seven times last term. Some players his age are now retired, while others are used sparingly by their coaches.
“Not that he is underrated. When you are not doing so well [as a team] it’s not easy to see what an individual is doing, but he has still done well. For me he should be midfielder of the season and he should be there in those big awards.”
Manaka’s season, meanwhile, has been hampered by injury. He has only made nine outings but is content with his performances.
“I was out for about four months and I have been getting back. It has not been the best of seasons, but I am fairly happy. I know there is room for improvement,” the ex-Leopards man says.