Sipho Mbule told about shocking reality in Iraq – ‘No freedom for parties’

Sipho Mbule has received a comprehensive briefing on his new club in the Middle East, including the significant financial opportunities awaiting him after his departure from Orlando Pirates.

The midfielder has finalised a deal to join Zakho SC, a team competing in the Iraqi Stars League, which is scheduled to kick off on August 15.

To gain insight into Mbule’s new environment, former Orlando Pirates midfielder Isaac Chansa, who had a brief stint with Zakho in 2017, shared his experiences.

“Zakho is a good, professional club, and the league is competitive, featuring players from South America,” Chansa told KickOff.

The retired Zambian international is fondly remembered for his two spells with the Buccaneers, most notably for his dramatic, late strike against Golden Arrows that secured the 2010/11 league title for Pirates on the final day of the season.

Potential to earn life-changing amounts

Chansa highlighted the lucrative nature of the Iraqi league, noting the high salaries commanded by top foreign talent. “You would be surprised to learn that some players, especially strikers from Chile and Brazil, can earn up to $150,000 (around R2.5 million) per month,” he added.

“Almost every team has foreign players from Africa, South America and even Spain and Portugal because of the money involved. The league also attracts coaches from Europe, Spain and Brazil.”

Addressing common safety concerns about the region, Chansa offered reassurance based on his own time there. “I went there not knowing anything about the league and I must admit I was nervous when I arrived, as it was after the war,” he said.

“But the truth is, I never heard a single gunshot during my entire stay. It was peaceful and we lived a normal life, even walking to the shopping mall.”

Mbule advised how to succeed in Iraq

He continued, “I know the perception is that Iraq isn’t a football nation, but they have a good league. Another Zambian, Roderick Kabwe, also played for Zakho and is still in Iraq, which tells you that if it were bad, he would have left.”

Chansa compared Zakho SC to a familiar South African club. “Zakho is similar to what SuperSport United used to be—not a massive club, but well-sponsored with excellent facilities and a proper stadium.”

Offering direct advice to Mbule, Chansa emphasised the need for professionalism and focus. “I would tell Sipho to appreciate that he is going there to work and must concentrate on that. In the Middle East, he can secure a move to an even bigger league and make more money,” he further stated.

“He will be a marquee player and they will expect him to deliver on the potential we saw in South Africa,” Chansa concluded. “Those countries don’t have the same freedom for parties as South Africa. If he focuses, he will make it big.”