Former Orlando Pirates winger Patrick Maswanganyi has opened up about the emotional impact of the controversy surrounding football legend Jomo Sono's famous "don't compare an ant with an elephant" remarks, revealing that the negative reaction on social media affected his family more than it affected him personally.

The 28-year-old explained that he was prepared to deal with criticism as a professional footballer, understanding that public scrutiny and negative opinions are part of playing at a big club like Orlando Pirates. However, the situation became increasingly difficult when his family members started experiencing the emotional consequences of the online backlash.

Maswanganyi made the revelation during a recent interview, explaining that he could have continued playing for the Buccaneers despite the criticism if his loved ones had not been affected.

"I would say when my family got involved, it was something whereby I couldn't feel okay also. But if it was only about me, I was still at Pirates – even today, playing and working," Maswanganyi explained.

The controversy dates back to 2024, when Sono, one of South African football's most respected legends and a former Orlando Pirates star, publicly cautioned supporters against comparing Maswanganyi to him.

The discussion intensified after Maswanganyi was handed the famous number 10 jersey for continental matches. Sono made it clear that he believed comparisons between the young midfielder and himself were unfair, using the now-famous elephant and ant analogy to emphasise the difference between their careers and achievements.

His comments quickly went viral, triggering heated discussions among football supporters. While some agreed with Sono's position, others defended Maswanganyi and criticised the manner in which the young footballer was being discussed.

Interestingly, Maswanganyi has indicated that he does not hold personal resentment towards Sono. Instead, his biggest concern was the treatment his family received from people reacting to the controversy online.

The former Pirates player has since moved to Bahrain, where he joined Al Khaldiya earlier this year in search of a fresh environment and greater peace away from the intense scrutiny surrounding South African football.

His latest comments have highlighted the emotional challenges professional footballers face beyond the pitch, particularly when criticism extends to their families.

Source:

https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2120225932313030765?a=YdDeq8hc-lRpnHdo0OM&s=19