Orlando Pirates Legend Speaks Out on Iconic Number 10 Jersey
By Sello Masilo
Jomo Sono, one of Orlando Pirates’ most iconic figures, has rejected any comparisons between himself and the club’s current number 10, Patrick Maswanganyi. As the Buccaneers gear up for the 2024/25 season, this conversation around the legendary jersey has resurfaced, prompting Sono to share his unfiltered views at the launch of Jomo Cosmos’ partnership with Lucas Batteries.
During the event, Sono made it clear that while Maswanganyi is free to don the jersey, comparisons to him or any previous number 10 wearers are premature. “We think the jersey number 10 is the one playing, but it was me who was playing,” Sono stated. He emphasised that his legacy, built on consistent and exceptional performances, is unparalleled, and therefore, he cautioned against drawing any direct comparisons between him and Maswanganyi.
A Legacy of Greats
The number 10 jersey at Orlando Pirates carries a rich history, having been worn by legendary players like Benedict ‘Tso’ Vilakazi, Oupa Manyisa, and Steve Lekoelea. Maswanganyi has now taken up this prestigious mantle in the CAF competitions, where restrictions on squad numbers necessitate the use of all available jerseys. However, despite these logistical decisions, the number has historically been semi-retired out of respect for players like Sono, who elevated its status during their time at the club.
According to reports, Sono clarified that it was not his decision to retire the jersey at Pirates: “It’s Pirates who chose to semi-retire it, not me. At Cosmos, I retired the number because it’s my club. But I can’t tell Pirates to do the same.”
Showboating and Performance: A Stark Contrast
While Sono recognized Maswanganyi’s talent and his right to wear the jersey, he expressed reservations about Maswanganyi’s playing style, particularly his tendency towards showboating. “I saw him [Maswanganyi] dancing on the ball and going towards his own goal, while Pirates were going in the other direction,” Sono remarked. He contrasted this with his own playing days, where his skills always had a purpose—entertaining the crowd while driving his team forward.
Sono further elaborated on the standards expected of a player wearing the number 10 jersey: “I was special every week, not just one week. Week in, week out, I was performing. If I had a bad game, you’d see me jogging on the road the next day to improve.”
Tempering Expectations
Sono’s comments reflect a broader sentiment about the pressures placed on players like Maswanganyi, who inherit prestigious jerseys with deep-rooted legacies. While acknowledging Maswanganyi’s impressive 40 appearances, 10 goals, and 12 assists last season, Sono urged supporters to temper their expectations and not place undue comparisons on the current star. “Don’t compare Maswanganyi with me. He is a good No. 10 for Pirates, but let him be his own player,” Sono advised, warning against the detrimental effects of such comparisons. “They all ‘die’ after you compare them with me.”
A Unique Legacy
Sono’s connection to the number 10 jersey transcends statistics and accolades. For him, the jersey is symbolic of excellence and consistency. Recalling his playing days, he said, “Pirates supporters would never leave the stadium, even in the 89th minute, because they knew that as long as the number 10 was on the field, anything could happen.”
This deep association with the number is why Sono holds such strong views on the matter. He made it clear that while he wishes Maswanganyi well, the comparisons must stop. “That jersey is special. I scored goals, not a goal, goals! I was special week in, week out, and that’s the difference.”
⬇️⬇️
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
centralnewsza #freestate