SOCCER – ESWATINI international Justice Figuareido has urged more local footballers to pursue opportunities abroad, saying exposure to foreign leagues will strengthen both individual players and the national team.
The forward, who currently plays for South Africa’s Chippa United, believes the growing number of Emaswati footballers securing moves to countries such as Zimbabwe is a positive sign for the development of local football.
According to Figuareido, Eswatini has no shortage of talent but more players need to challenge themselves outside the country if the nation is to compete at a higher level internationally.
“There are so many talented players in the country. I am happy that more players are being exported. We need more players to play outside to help the national team. I hope more players move abroad, especially to South Africa. I wish them all well,” he said.
However, the international striker cautioned aspiring professionals about the realities of life away from home, stressing that talent alone is not enough to succeed.
“It is not easy being far away from home. You have to survive on your own and take care of yourself,” he said. Figuareido also warned players against making poor decisions that could derail their careers.
“They must not indulge in things they may regret tomorrow,” he said.
The attacker further emphasised the importance of staying fit during the off-season, noting that opportunities can quickly disappear for players who return unprepared.
“Players must have an active rest during the off-season. Many opportunities can be lost if you are not ready. Avoid gaining weight and becoming unfit,” he said.
His comments come at a time when an increasing number of Eswatini players are securing moves to leagues across Southern Africa, particularly in Zimbabwe where several local stars have established themselves in recent seasons.
Despite speculation surrounding his own future, Figuareido revealed that his immediate focus remains on his current club Chippa United.
“My focus is on Chippa. There are no new offers for now and I just want to continue working hard and become a better player,” he said.
While he did not rule out future opportunities, the powerful forward insisted that his priority is personal improvement and reaching higher levels in his career.
“In the future, I can look at offers but right now I want to become a better version of myself,” he said.
Figuareido believes Eswatini’s football future depends on exporting more talent but he stressed that success abroad required discipline, sacrifice and constant readiness.
