Abubeker Nasir leaves Mamelodi Sundowns for two-year Mechal SC deal

Abubeker Nasir has returned to Ethiopia to join Mechal SC on a two-year contract from Mamelodi Sundowns, with the 26-year-old hoping to revive a career that began with a spectacular spell in South Africa.

Nasir made an immediate impression after arriving at Sundowns, scoring three goals in his first five appearances for the club. His early progress was then interrupted by a serious injury sustained during a match against Orlando Pirates, which kept him out of action for several months.

The forward marked his return in memorable fashion, scoring for Mamelodi Sundowns in a CAF Champions League match against Cameroonian club Coton Sport.

Despite that goal, Nasir was unable to reproduce the form he had shown at the beginning of his time in South Africa. He was subsequently sent out on loan to SuperSport United and AmaTuks, although he did not make an appearance for either club.

In total, Nasir played 17 matches for Mamelodi Sundowns and scored four goals.

He will now continue his career back in his home country after agreeing a two-year transfer to Mechal SC, according to Soccer Ethiopia. The move gives Nasir an opportunity to return to regular football and rebuild his momentum after a difficult period affected by injury and limited playing time.

Nasir previously established himself as one of the standout performers in Ethiopian football during the 2020/21 campaign. He scored 29 goals in 24 matches, setting an all-time Ethiopian Premier League record.

His remarkable season also saw him collect the league’s Best Player and Top Scorer awards, underlining the level of performance that first attracted attention to his performances in Ethiopia.

The transfer to Mechal SC represents a return to familiar surroundings for Nasir after his spell with Mamelodi Sundowns. His time in South Africa began with considerable promise, but the injury suffered against Orlando Pirates disrupted his progress and he was never able to regain his initial level consistently.

Although he later scored in continental competition against Coton Sport, opportunities became more limited before his loan moves to SuperSport United and AmaTuks. Neither spell resulted in a match appearance.

Nasir’s record-breaking campaign in Ethiopia remains the strongest indication of his ability. At Mechal SC, he will aim to rediscover that form and make a significant impact during his two-year agreement.