Midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi of the Orlando Pirates has spoken about the South African football icon Teko Modise, who he says has always been an inspiration to him. Modise had a significant influence in moulding Maswanganyi's football dreams.

While speaking with the South African Football Journalists Association (SAFJA) about the person who had the greatest impact on his football career, the gifted midfielder revealed the secret.

Maswanganyi mentioned a South African football player instead of a worldwide superstar, stating that Modise's style of play had affected his approach to the game. This may have surprised some of his admirers.

The Orlando Pirates player spoke up about how he looked up to Modise as a child and how he constantly fantasised about playing like him. "Teko Modise. I admired him so much that I tried to mimic some of his moves," Maswanganyi said of the former midfielder. I would say that because I used to see myself playing just like him whenever I saw him play. What Maswanganyi told SAFJA was that he had always aimed to mimic his style.

But Modise is more than just a footballer to him. "I always like his style of play and obviously how he dresses and how he talks," the Pirates midfielder revealed, adding that he also admires the former Bafana Bafana international's charisma, sense of style, and communication abilities. I always look up to him because he's simply a great guy," he continued.

With a stellar career that included stops at Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, Modise is still a household name in South African football.

The former midfielder was a fan favourite when playing because of his imaginative play, technical prowess, vision, and self-assurance with the ball. He was also a respected member of the Bafana Bafana national squad and represented them on an international level.

Considering how many South African footballers grew up watching him play, it's little wonder he had an impact on the next generation of players.

Maswanganyi finds the link especially intriguing as he now plays for Orlando Pirates, a club where Modise had some of his most memorable moments on the pitch.

Maswanganyi, also known by his nickname "Tito," is renowned for his technical prowess, inventiveness, and readiness to shoulder responsibility when it comes to attacking.

Additionally, his remarks provide light on the inner motivations that shape his playing style.

Though new football superstars emerge with each new generation, Maswanganyi's respect for Modise exemplifies the enduring impact that veteran South African players can have on the sport.

The midfielder's confession provides another intriguing angle for Pirates fans to discuss about the person they see playing for the Buccaneers.

Source

https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2120492685710512324?a=Aem_qsRw10Kzea8aWIA&s=20