Manyisa's out of this world: Ruud Gullit

TWO-TIME World Player of the Year and Dutch soccer legend Ruud Gullit has fallen in love with Orlando Pirates utility player Oupa "Ace" Manyisa.

TWO-TIME World Player of the Year and Dutch soccer legend Ruud Gullit has fallen in love with Orlando Pirates utility player Oupa "Ace" Manyisa.

Speaking at the end of the inaugural Carling Black Label Cup at Soccer City on Saturday, Gullit said he was highly impressed by the immense talent of Manyisa.

"That player wearing jersey number 20 for Orlando Pirates (Manyisa), sorry I don't remember his name, is something out of this world. He was comfortable on the ball, he knows what to do when he is in possession," said Gullit, who is also ambassador of the new competition featuring Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs.

Gullit described the event as a unique and amazing initiative that gives supporters a chance to have a say in the selection of the team.

"This is a great and historic tournament, it is all about doing something for the fans by Carling Black Label and the two football clubs," he said. "It is good that charity is also benefiting as part of the money won by (two) lucky fans goes to charity organisations of their choice."

Gullit is happy that South African amateur soccer coaches are also benefitting from the new tournament since Safa uses it as a vehicle to develop them.

"It is good that the tournament includes the aspect of developing South African coaches."

Safa technical director Serame Letsoaka is in charge of the project to develop coaches.

Commenting on the rise of Bafana Bafana after the 2010 World Cup, Gullit said he was happy to see the South African senior soccer team doing well and topping their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying group.

"Bafana Bafana are on the verge of qualifying for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations finals, it's great for development of South African football.

"I love South Africa and wish Bafana Bafana all the best."

Manyisa, who was recruited and given the nickname "Ace" by Stanley "Screamer" Tshabalala, said: "It's a great honour to hear that Ruud is highly impressed."

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.