Leeroy Mavunga Speaks on Career Journey, European Dreams and Yadah Blocked Benfica Move in Exclusive ZimSports Flash Interview
Dynamos FC midfielder Leeroy Mavunga has opened up on his football journey, personal struggles, career ambitions, and his disappointment after Yadah FC reportedly blocked a potential move to Portuguese giants Benfica, in an exclusive interview with ZimSports Flash.
Mavunga, who hails from Western Triangle, Highfields in Harare, described himself as a dedicated footballer currently playing for Dynamos FC. He revealed that his football journey started at a young age, with his breakthrough coming during his school days at Marlborough High School, where he was named Player of the Tournament in a Nash U17 competition in 2015.
He said that moment marked the beginning of his professional pathway into football.
His career has seen him move across several clubs and countries. He played for Yadah FC from 2016 to 2019 before joining CAPS United in 2020. In 2021, he moved to Orapa United in Botswana, followed by a six-month spell at Dynamo Tbilisi in Georgia. He later returned to Botswana with Morupule Wanderers for the 2023 season, then joined Scottland FC in 2024 before signing for Dynamos FC in 2025, where he currently plays.
Mavunga named Cristiano Ronaldo, Knowledge Musona, Khama Billiat, and Kudakwashe Mahachi as his football inspirations, saying he grew up watching them and drawing motivation from their careers.
However, his journey was not easy. He explained that financial struggles in his early years nearly derailed his dream, as he often lacked proper boots and training equipment. He also suffered an injury at a young age, which made him consider quitting football.
Despite those challenges, he says perseverance kept him going.
Reflecting on his current season, Mavunga said Dynamos have improved significantly compared to last year. He also highlighted that last season was a difficult one for the club, although it still brought success, as he won the Chibuku Super Cup and the Castle Lager Challenge Cup, adding that the team is now more competitive and united.
His best moment of the season so far came when he scored his first goal against Triangle United, which he described as a special milestone.
While he prefers creating chances over scoring, Mavunga said he is working hard to improve his finishing and overall attacking output.
His personal goal for the season is to help Dynamos compete for trophies through goals, assists, and consistent performances. Long-term, he dreams of playing football abroad at the highest level.
Mavunga said playing for Dynamos means a lot to him, describing it as the biggest club in Zimbabwe. He added that every time he wears the jersey, he is motivated to give 100% for the team and supporters, stressing that without the fans there is no Dynamos.
Off the pitch, he enjoys playing FIFA with friends and spending time with family. He named Sunday Chidzambwa and Prophet Magaya as two major influences in his life and career.
He advised young footballers to believe in themselves, work hard, and stay disciplined if they want to succeed.
Looking back, Mavunga said some of his biggest achievements include winning the Eastern Region Championship with Yadah FC, and representing Zimbabwe at international level, where he won two COSAFA titles with the national team.
He said Yadah FC has improved in terms of player welfare since his departure.
However, Mavunga also revealed disappointment in his career after Yadah FC reportedly refused to sell him when Benfica showed interest. He also mentioned a failed move involving Bidvest Wits, which he described as one of his most painful moments.
Despite everything, he remains focused on his journey with Dynamos FC, determined to continue working hard while still chasing his dream of playing in Europe.
Images courtesy of Solo Pictures & Backpage pix
Leave a Reply