Maswanganyi reveals Teko Modise’s lasting influence on his football career

Former Orlando Pirates attacking midfielder Patrick ‘Tito’ Maswanganyi says South African football legend Teko Modise was a major influence on both his playing style and personal image.

Maswanganyi discussed his admiration for Modise during an interview with the South African Football Journalists Association (SAFJA), following his move to Bahrain with Al-Khaldiya SC after leaving the Buccaneers.

Asked to name the biggest influence on his career, the 28-year-old said Modise’s impact went beyond simply watching him perform on the pitch.

“Teko Modise. I would say because when I used to watch him, I would always see myself playing like him. I’ve always tried to copy his style,” Maswanganyi told SAFJA.

The former Pirates player also explained that Modise influenced the way he thought about his appearance, particularly his hairstyle.

Modise was known for wearing dreadlocks, but Maswanganyi said that seeing the former midfielder’s look encouraged him to consider braids instead.

“I never told anyone this, but I saw he did dreadlocks and I thought I don’t like dreadlocks, so I should do braids,” he said.

Maswanganyi also revealed that meeting Modise had long been an ambition, after admiring him throughout his own development as a footballer.

“I’ve always wanted to meet him and I’ve met him. I always like his style of play and obviously how he dresses and how he talks. He’s just an amazing person that I always look up to,” he added.

Maswanganyi was born in Tembisa and became an important figure during his time with Orlando Pirates. He has now begun a new chapter in Bahrain, where he will aim to continue his career with Al-Khaldiya.

His comments provide an insight into the player who helped shape his football ambitions, from the way he played to the way he presented himself away from the pitch.