Niyonzima hints on leaving Young Africans

Rwanda national football team captain Haruna Niyonzima has dropped the biggest hint yet that he could be heading out of Tanzanian Premier League side Young Africans (Yanga) after six years. Speaking to Times Sport on Saturday, Niyonzima said, “Out of the huge respect I have for Yanga fans, I have been totally honest and transparent with them, I’ve told them now is the time to move on. I have done my best at the club and hope I have repaid on the pitch the faith put in me.” The former Etincelles, Rayon Sports and APR player did not give out much regarding his possible next destination, but unconfirmed reports have linked him to a Vietnam move. “I can’t say much right now because discussions are still going on; my focus is on the national team and having a nice holiday with my family afterwards,” he said. Niyonzima added that, “I feel immense pride to have been part of what Yanga has achieved in the time I have been there. The relationship I share with the club and the fans is amazing, something I will treasure forever and I truly hope they understand.” The 27-year-old playmaker was last week named the best foreign player in the Tanzanian league for the 2016/17 season and is back home for national duty as Amavubi prepare for the first 2019 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Central African Republic scheduled for June 11 in Bangui. The Rwanda international signed for the Dar es Salaam-based giants in September 2011 from APR FC on an initial two year contract worth $33,000 and a monthly salary of $1500 on top of other allowances. In 2013, the midfielder renewed his contract for two years despite interest from Yanga’s archrivals SC Simba and Azam FC. Over the six seasons, the Rubavu-born midfielder has won four Tanzanian league titles in 2012/13, 2014/15, 2015/16 and 2016/17 as well as the CECAFA Kagame Cup in 2011 and 2012. editorial@newtimes.co.rw