Swazi Observer

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MCCREESH OFFERED E100 000-A-WEEK DEAL

By XOLISILE SACOLO | 2024-05-30

SOCCER - FINANCIAL windfall!
Seven Dreams midfielder Richard McCreesh has been offered a lucrative deal in Northern Ireland.
The former Mbabane Swallows player is on the verge of becoming the highest-paid player in Eswatini after he was offered the deal.

Reports suggest that a blockbuster deal with a third division side in Northern Ireland is ready to grant him a salary that eclipses any other Eswatini player.

The player left the country last week for trials, and it would seem all is progressing well.
The player’s talent has become undeniable with the team, making them eager to secure his services.

A close source to the matter revealed the eye-watering figures.
The source said the player had already been offered the deal and was expected to sign on the dotted line with his new team.

“McCreesh’s contract will see him pocket around 5 000 Pounds (plus or minus E100 000) a week. I have seen the papers and what I am telling you is real. I know it is hard to believe it, but it is true. I will come with more details soon.”

According to their rate, this is a salary for the lowest paid player.
The source said the player would not be returning to the country, as he passed the trials and was yet to sign a contract with his new team.

“I will also get more details once he signs the contract and I will share it with you. I will also try to get copies of the contract and send them to you anytime soon,” the source said.

While the financial windfall is significant, McCreesh’s immediate attention will be in contributing to the team’s success.

“We will also talk to the player now because he will be expected to behave like a true professional. We do not doubt his talent; he only has to grab this opportunity with both hands. It is almost a done deal.”

This move will represent a moment of national pride for Eswatini. His journey from the streets of Mbabane to where he is now is an inspiration to other footballers.

While European leagues remain the ultimate dream for many footballers, the player's record-breaking deal proves that Eswatini can also offer players a path to both success and wealth. The source said Sidwashini United would also be compensated separately.

“Negotiations between the clubs are expected to be finalised soon. Now that the club and player have agreed on terms, it is left with the clubs to also finalise their offer. It is expected that Sidwashini United will accept any amount to be offered,” said the source.

Sidwashini United PRO Thabiso Manyatsi said the player was already in Northern Ireland, where everything was progressing well.

“All I know is that he arrived safely in Northern Ireland and we are waiting for his team to get back to us. I also know that they will start their pre-season soon,” he said. Not only will this move open doors for other local players, but it also means the player’s future is secured financially.

Meanwhile, McCreesh was written off in local football about three seasons ago when his contract with Mbabane Swallows expired. His career was revived by ambitious side Sidwashini United, who signed him while they were playing in the Super League to tap into his experience.

In his second season, McCreesh has helped Sidwashini gain promotion to the Premier League in a historic run after buying the status of Seven Dreams.

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