Once hailed as the “best African player” and considered on par with legends like Eto’o and Drogba, Trésor Mabi Mputu’s football journey has taken a different turn. The Congolese football prodigy, who was once unanimously admired across the continent, now finds himself struggling to deliver standout performances for TP Mazembe.
Last Saturday, Mazembe suffered a loss in the CAF Confederation Cup final against CS Sfaxien, despite a 2-1 victory. The team needed to score three goals without conceding, and despite an ideal start with two goals in 20 minutes, they fell short. Mputu, once a key player, seemed unable to provide the necessary spark.
In this crucial double confrontation against Sfaxien, Mputu’s performance was lacking, and he no longer holds the essential role he once did at TP Mazembe. His coach, Patrice Carteron, acknowledged that Mputu has realized the team can win without him, pushing him to work harder.
There is a sense of weariness in Mputu’s career, and the possibility of a departure is hinted at. While legendary players like Paolo Maldini and Ryan Giggs command admiration for their loyalty to one club, Mputu’s situation may be different.
