Ugandan Premier League MVP moves to China

Ugandan Premier League (UPL) champions Vipers SC have confirmed the departure of Central African Republic (CAR) striker Cesa Manzoki who has signed for Chinese top tier side, Dalian Pro FC.

Manzoki’s future at the club has been a subject of speculation for the last few weeks with reports linking him with a move away from the UPL. Tanzania duo of Simba and Yanga were both battling for his signature but he has now opted for a switch to the Chinese league.

“Vipers Sports Club can confirm forward Cesar Manzoki has completed a move to Chinese Super League outfit Dalian Pro FC. The lanky forward that goes by the moniker Emperor joined the Venoms at the start of the 2020/21 campaign and went on to become an instant hit as he immediately became a core squad member and forthwith a darling of the fans,” read part of the statement from the venoms.

In his first season with Vipers, Manzoki scored seven league goals and a similar number in the FA Cup. He also registered six league assists to leave a mark in his maiden season. The second season was a memorable one for the striker. He played 29 games, scored 18 goals, and set up nine others.

This was rewarded with numerous awards at the end of the season gala as Manzoki was named SUPL Top Scorer (18 goals), Player of the Season, Playmaker of the Season, Forward of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season, and was named in Team of the Season, to end his short stint at the Ugandan Premier League on a high.

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The player has thanked everyone at the club in a glowing tribute as he exits St. Mary’s Kitende.

He is not the only key players leaving Vipers this window as fast-rising Uganda Cranes midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga is set to join an unnamed side in the Czech Republic while defender Halid Lwaliwa is South Africa bound.