Former Malawi National Football Team midfielder Chimango Kayira has announced his retirement from active football after picking a job at Mpira M’mudzi Mwathu (MMM) organisation.
Kayira, 36, announced his retirement on his Facebook page on Friday, ending a career spanning about 16 years.
“Today, I end an incredible 15-year journey of active football and embrace a new challenge as project officer for Mpira Mmudzi Mwathu organisation,” he said.
Kayira, who was playing for Bangwe All Stars this season, hailed the club’s management for being flexible and allowing smooth transition, enabling him to walk out of active football to football administration.
“I extend gratitude to all football clubs that gave me a chance to be part of their family. Mulanje United taught me how to crawl, Escom Reserves nurtured me and Escom United senior team turned me into a champion. FCB Nyasa Big Bullets gave me a home, Costa do Sol taught me how to fly and Vilankulo gave me a way out when it was dark. Most of all, a big thank you to the Football Association of Malawi for taking me far and wide,” he said.
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Commonly known as ‘Blackberry’, Kayira also thanked MMM Board Chairman Chimango Munthali and Chief Executive Officer Patrick Chimimba for hiring him.
On his part, Chimimba said the organisation is excited with Kayira’s potential as a top-level football coach, administrator and football data analyst.
“We have been in contact with him for over three years and have been impressed by his behaviour, track record and intelligence. Chimango [Kayira] is ambitious and, if nurtured, has a bright future in coaching and football administration.
“In order to support his transition from playing to coaching, Chimango will undergo mentorship in coaching, football development, project management and leadership. MMM considers themselves lucky to have him on board and is committed to helping him succeed in his new roles,” Chimimba said.
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He said MMM has experience in this type of transition, having held a special coaching course for aging players in the elite league.
