SOCCER – Mbabane Swallows captain Philiso Newman has completed his move to Zimbabwean side Agama FC in a deal reportedly worth E150 000.
The Mount Darwin-based club submitted a formal offer for the highly rated defender, with the transfer finalised yesterday.
Swallows Public Relations Officer Knowledge ‘Bhambo’ Ngwenya confirmed the club was aware of the move and wished the 22-year-old well.
Newman travelled to Zimbabwe shortly after Swallows’ 1-2 MTN Premier League defeat to Tabankulu Celtics to explore opportunities abroad.
Before securing the Agama move, he had a brief trial with Hard Rock FC, but Agama’s offer ultimately took priority.
Agama recently made history in Mount Darwin after being crowned Northern Region Division One champions, earning promotion to the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) for the first time. The club has built a reputation for making its Pfura home ground a difficult venue for visiting teams.
Newman joined Mbabane Swallows in 2023 from Ludzeludze Killers and quickly established himself as one of the club’s most consistent performers. His leadership qualities saw him handed the captain’s armband at just 22, attracting interest from clubs beyond Eswatini’s borders.
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Ngwenya encouraged the young defender to continue working hard and seize the opportunity for greater international exposure.
Newman becomes the fourth local player to join a Zimbabwean club, following Neliswa Tiger Dlamini, Sambulo Masoso Simelane and Kwakhe Tfwala. His move underlines the growing recognition of Eswatini talent in neighbouring leagues and marks a significant milestone in his career.
