In the latest edition of Negotiating Behind the Scenes, former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Russell 'Romario' Molefe reveals details on his move to the Brazilians.
Who I signed for...
"For Mamelodi Sundowns from Acornbush United. It was 1994. But, personally I'm from Garankuwa."
How did you find out?
"Mike Ntombela. I think he was part of the Sundowns technical team then. There was a boy who was a foreigner Mike had come watch. A striker. But when he arrived, he saw different. He didn't say anything to me that day, he only told me when I joined Sundowns he was the one who scouted me."
Where did you meet?
"Then Alex Tshakoane phoned to inform me they were coming to fetch me. By that time it was during a FIFA break I think, as I was at home. Then Alex came on a Sunday."
Who was there?
"Natasha [Anastasia] Tsichlas at the old Sundowns offices in a small street in Joburg."
What surprised you?
"There was nothing surprising because they were a premier division team, it was all about commitment."
Did you get what you wanted?
"Aah, that time I didn't look at the money. If I was looking at the money, I would have gone there with somebody to represent me. I was 22 at the time. I was just excited to go back home after spending close to eight years away from my family. So, this opportunity to join Sundowns provided me with an opportunity to stay close to home.
"I was now staying at home; I would travel to training. They would come and fetch me."
Did you see out the contract?
"Yes, the whole three years and I even signed for another three years."
What would you change?
"Nothing. Was just happy to be back in Pretoria again. Even now, I've opened a foundation where we are looking to develop young boys and young girls because here in Garankuwa, the number of professional players has gone down. We used to have 12, 15 professional players, but now I think it's only two."