Mberikwazvo Chitambo center, Tinashe Chipunza club chairman (l) Tapiwa Letmore Mbidzo Club vice president ( r)
By Desire Tshuma
Mutare – Manica Diamonds have been handed a lifeline after club patron Mberikwazvo Chitambo met the team in Mutare on Wednesday and pledged his full support as they battle to beat relegation from the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.
Chitambo, a close associate of billionaire businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, addressed players, the technical team, and part of the executive and board at their training base for the first time.
He said he made the trip because he was deeply concerned about the welfare of the players and wanted them to know they had his backing during one of the club’s toughest periods.
Club president Mr Kamombo had approached him about the team’s situation, Chitambo revealed.
“Yes, I was approached by the club president, Mr Kamombo. He didn’t lie to me. He told me frankly about the position the team is in on the log. It took me a few days to respond because I had to think about it carefully. In the end, I told him that Manica Diamonds did not choose me, I chose Manica Diamonds,” he said.
Chitambo said his decision was driven by his roots in Manicaland.
“I was told the team is from Manicaland, and that is where I was born. I was born in Bocha. This is not the first time I have helped a team that was fighting relegation, but your situation is different because this is home. You are representing many of our people in this province, and that is why I could not ignore your call,” he said.
With the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League in Week 23, Manica Diamonds have just 12 matches left to secure their top-flight status. The club is under pressure to collect points and escape the relegation zone.
Chitambo acknowledged the anxiety but urged the team to keep fighting.
“We have been having sleepless nights, but I told the president that I will not give up on you. We will continue fighting together because I believe this team can survive,” he said.
The patron also spoke of his football background.
“One of my sons played for Dynamos in Harare. I was also a goalkeeper during my playing days, while my late brother was a national team goalkeeper. So I understand the welfare issues that players go through, and I appreciate the importance of supporting them,” he added.
Players welcomed the intervention as a morale boost.
“We were really down, my brother, but this news has given us hope. We will fight on the pitch and do everything in our power to save the team from relegation,” said one player who requested anonymity.
The renewed optimism comes ahead of a crucial clash against CAPS United at Sakubva Stadium in Mutare on Saturday — a match that could prove pivotal in their fight for survival.
Supporters will be hoping the patron’s message translates into improved performances as the team enters the decisive final stretch of the season.