In this edition of In The Spotlight, KickOff speaks to former Santos FC and Bidvest Wits FC star Marawaan Bantam.
Bantam discusses how his life might have turned out differently if he had not become a football player.
Who is your all-time favourite player in SA?
"My favourite players were Doctor Khumalo and Duncan Crowie. I loved watching the way they played the game. Doctor had incredible skill, and Duncan was my all-time favourite here in Cape Town."
Did you model your game after them?
"Yes, they were the players I looked up to. Internationally, I admired Zinedine Zidane. From their game, I learned how to navigate tight situations using my skill and intelligence. They were my idols."
Which player gave you the most sleepless nights?
"We faced some very strong players, like Tso Vilakazi and Jabu Mahlangu. Jabu had exceptional skill and was quick on the ball, while Tso, though small in stature, was very clever."
What is your favourite club?
"Kaizer Chiefs. Even to this day."
Is there anything you dislike about football?
"I dislike the poor officiating, especially against us Capetonians. When I was at Santos and we played in Polokwane, the refereeing was questionable. They awarded our opponents penalties that weren’t actually penalties, and free-kicks that weren’t warranted."
Who is your best friend in football?
"It was Kenwyn Manuel. We lived together in Johannesburg when we were at Wits, and we did everything together."
What made you choose football?
"Growing up as a small kid in Bonteheuwel, surrounded by gangsterism and drug use, it was football that helped steer us away from those influences."
If you were not a footballer, what would you have done?
"I would have been a carpenter. I enjoy working with wood and building things."
