Andile Mpisane, the former Royal AM chairman, part-time player, and son of Durban businesswoman Shauwn Mkhize, is reportedly preparing for a return to professional football—this time beyond South African borders. According to a report in the Eswatini Daily News, the 24-year-old has been training with Mbabane Highlanders AM as the club gears up for the new season, which is set to begin this weekend.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Mpisane, known to many as a DJ and rapper as much as a footballer, has not stepped onto a competitive pitch since Royal AM’s last run in December last year. His sudden reappearance has sparked renewed debate about his football ambitions and whether he is truly ready to carve out a career abroad.
From Royal AM’s Demise to a Fresh Start
Royal AM’s downfall earlier this year has been well documented. The club, once a rising force in the local league, was removed from the Premiership after being placed under curatorship. This came after owner Shauwn Mkhize faced a R40 million tax debt that led to the eventual collapse of the side.
Following the setback, Mkhize wasted little time making moves in Eswatini. She acquired the Mbabane Highlanders and later rebranded the team to Mbabane Highlanders AM – incorporating her son’s initials into the club’s name. It was initially believed that Andile would only take up an administrative role in this new project, with Mkhize even stating on radio that her son had moved past playing football.
“At Royal AM he had started focusing on the management side of the game,” she explained in an interview earlier this year. “He experienced what it was like to play in the top league, but I think his interest now lies more in business and leadership.”
Also read: Shauwn Mkhize Faces Legal Dispute Over Mbabane Highlanders Ownership
Question Marks Over Playing Ability
While Mpisane’s off-field presence is undeniable, his footballing record remains a subject of controversy. His most notable appearance came in a clash against Kaizer Chiefs last season. Starting the match, Mpisane struggled to keep up with the pace as Amakhosi quickly stormed into a 2–0 lead. He was substituted at half-time, and Royal AM went on to rally back for a respectable 2–2 draw.
That game proved to be a turning point. Mpisane never started another match for Royal AM and featured sparingly before the club played its final fixtures. Critics argued that his involvement was more symbolic than competitive, while supporters insisted he deserved time to develop his skills.
New Opportunity Abroad
With Mbabane Highlanders AM preparing for their league campaign, Mpisane’s return to training has raised eyebrows. The big question is whether he is truly committed to reigniting his career or whether this is another short-lived chapter under the spotlight of his mother’s influence.
Nevertheless, his name alone guarantees attention. If he does feature, every appearance will be dissected by fans and pundits alike. Supporters in Eswatini are already curious to see whether he can silence his doubters and prove himself beyond the glitz of his family’s wealth and business empire.
Also read: MaMkhize’s Fleet of Luxury Cars and Royal AM Bus Headed for Auction
All Eyes on the Season Kick-Off
Whether Andile Mpisane has secured a symbolic place in the squad or is genuinely aiming to make an impact remains to be seen. What is certain is that his story has once again placed him firmly in the headlines, both in our country and abroad.
As the Eswatini league kicks off, the 24-year-old will be under the microscope. For some, this is a redemption opportunity. For others, it is yet another experiment destined to fizzle out. Either way, Mpisane’s return ensures that Mbabane Highlanders AM will draw plenty of attention both on and off the pitch.
