Kwanele Kopo gives a statement on Abubeker Nasir's status after joining AmaTuks! | OneFootball

Former Mamelodi Sundowns star has chosen a new beginning for his life.

Kwanele Kopo gives a statement on Abubeker Nasir's status after joining AmaTuks!

In the wake of a hard-fought stalemate against Venda FC, AmaTuks coach Kwanele Kopo has shed light on the club's mounting injury concerns, confirming the sidelining of their new high-profile signing, former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Abubeker Nasir.

The Ethiopian international's move to the Motsepe Foundation Championship side, which FARPost understands is a permanent deal, was meant to reignite a career that has stalled since his promising arrival in South Africa in 2022. However, a recurring cycle of injuries has continued to plague the 25-year-old, preventing him from making his mark. His most recent stint, a loan to the now-defunct SuperSport United, saw him fail to feature at all.

While the club has remained officially tight-lipped about Nasir's acquisition, the speculation has now been put to rest by Coach Kopo, who included the forward in a list of key players currently unavailable.

"We are navigating a significant injury crisis," Kopo revealed after the goalless draw. He painted a picture of a squad missing several vital pieces, naming not only Nasir but also the sidelined Prince Nxumalo the league's top scorer from two seasons ago, who is now recovering from an operation and the important winger Aphelele Teto. Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Veli Mothwa was also mentioned among the absentees.

Despite the challenges, Kopo maintains a perspective focused on long-term growth. "We are still in a building process, but we are happy with the progress so far," he stated, acknowledging a sense of what could have been. He believes the team's performances have merited more than the 13 points they have accumulated from 10 matches, a tally that currently places them eighth on the log and just six points adrift of the leaders, Milford FC. For AmaTuks and their fans, the return of their injured stars, including the enigmatic Nasir, could be the key to unlocking their full potential.