Lesley Manyathela Jr., nicknamed “Poison,” is a young footballer with a story as inspiring as it is challenging. As the son of the late Lesley Manyathela, a revered Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates striker, Lesley Jr. has grown up in the shadow of one of South African football’s most celebrated figures. In a candid interview, the budding star opened up about his journey, the weight of expectations, and his determination to carve out his own path in the world of football.
Living in the Shadow of a Legend
Lesley Manyathela Sr., fondly remembered as “Slow Poison,” was a prolific striker whose name still resonates in South African football. His career, though tragically cut short by a car accident in 2003, remains a benchmark for excellence. He was a role model on and off the pitch, renowned for his clinical finishing, humility, and love for the game.
For Lesley Jr., living with the legacy of such a figure has been a double-edged sword. “People always compare me to my father,” he began. “It’s both an honor and a challenge. My dad achieved so much in a short time, and everyone expects me to reach the same heights, if not exceed them.”
The comparisons started early in his life, as soon as it became apparent that Lesley Jr. shared his father’s passion for football. “I can’t count the number of times people told me, ‘You must be as great as your dad.’ It’s inspiring, but it also adds a lot of pressure,” he admitted.
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Finding His Own Identity
Despite the immense pressure, Lesley Jr. has worked hard to establish his own identity as a footballer. “I’m Lesley Manyathela Jr., not my father,” he emphasized. “While I respect everything he achieved, I’m my own person with my own journey.”
This determination to be recognized on his own merits has shaped his approach to the game. Unlike his father, who was a pure striker, Lesley Jr. has developed into a more versatile player. “I can play in multiple positions,” he explained. “I enjoy being creative and setting up goals as much as scoring them. It’s my way of adding something new to the Manyathela name.”
Dealing with Expectations
Lesley Jr. admitted that the weight of expectations has not always been easy to bear. “Sometimes, it feels like people are waiting for me to fail, just so they can say, ‘He’ll never be like his dad.’ That can be tough to deal with.”
However, he has learned to turn this pressure into motivation. “My father’s story inspires me to keep going, even when things get tough. He worked hard for everything he achieved, and that’s what I try to do as well.”
To stay grounded, Lesley Jr. focuses on his personal growth and surrounding himself with positive influences. “I’ve learned to block out the noise and focus on my game. My family and close friends have been a big support system for me,” he shared.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born shortly before his father’s untimely passing, Lesley Jr. grew up hearing stories about the man whose name he shares. “I never got to know my father personally, but I feel connected to him through the stories people tell me,” he said.
From a young age, it was clear that football ran in his blood. “I started kicking a ball as soon as I could walk,” Lesley Jr. recalled with a smile. “It was natural for me, almost like it was meant to be.”
He credits his family for encouraging his passion for the sport. “My mom and other relatives never pushed me into football, but they always supported me. They wanted me to do what made me happy.”
Rising Through the Ranks
Lesley Jr.’s football journey began in local youth academies, where his natural talent quickly caught the eye of coaches. “I’ve always had a competitive spirit,” he said. “Even as a kid, I wanted to be the best on the field.”
His dedication to improving his skills led to opportunities with more competitive teams. “Every step of the way, I’ve had to prove myself,” he explained. “I’ve worked hard to earn my place in every team I’ve played for.”
Now, as he begins to make a name for himself in South African football, Lesley Jr. is focused on continuing his upward trajectory. “I know I have a long way to go, but I’m willing to put in the work,” he said..
Carrying the Manyathela Legacy
Lesley Jr. is keenly aware of the responsibility that comes with his last name. “When people hear ‘Manyathela,’ they think of my father and everything he accomplished. It’s a name that means a lot to South African football,” he said.
For him, honoring his father’s legacy is about more than just playing the game. “My dad wasn’t just a great footballer; he was a great person. People still talk about his humility and kindness. I want to carry that forward in how I live my life.”
He added, “Football is just one part of who I am. I also want to inspire others, just like my father did.”
Dreams and Aspirations
When asked about his goals, Lesley Jr. didn’t hesitate. “I want to play for South Africa, just like my dad did. Wearing the Bafana Bafana jersey would be a dream come true,” he said.
He also expressed a desire to play overseas. “I want to test myself against the best in the world. That’s how you grow as a player,” he explained.
At the same time, he remains committed to staying grounded and focusing on the present. “It’s important to take things step by step. Right now, I’m focused on improving my game and helping my team succeed.”
Lessons Learned from His Father’s Story
Although he never got to meet his father, Lesley Jr. has learned valuable lessons from his father’s story. “My dad achieved so much because he was dedicated and worked hard every single day,” he said.
He also draws inspiration from the way his father handled success. “Even when he was at the top, he stayed humble. That’s something I always try to remember,” he added.
Message to Young Footballers
Lesley Jr. had a message for aspiring footballers who look up to him and his father. “Don’t let anyone define your journey. Work hard, stay focused, and believe in yourself,” he advised.
He also emphasized the importance of staying true to oneself. “Be the best version of you, not a copy of someone else. That’s the key to success,” he said.
Writing His Own Chapter
Lesley Manyathela Jr. is a young man on a mission. While the shadow of his father’s legacy looms large, he is determined to create his own story, one that honors his father while standing on its own merits.
“I know people will always compare me to my dad, and that’s okay,” he said. “But at the end of the day, I’m writing my own chapter. I’m proud to be Lesley Manyathela Jr., and I’m proud of the journey I’m on.”
As he continues to develop as a footballer and a person, there’s no doubt that Lesley Jr. has the potential to make his mark on South African football, carrying forward the legacy of a name that means so much to the sport.
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