Mighty Wanderers’ attacking midfielder Isaac Kaliati has been rewarded with a substantial MK100,000 bonus from his manager/agent James Kasambala following his outstanding performance in the team’s convincing victory over Mafco FC at Kamuzu Stadium.

The 2024 TNM Super League golden boot winner demonstrated his class once again, breaking the deadlock in what had been a tightly contested first half. Seventeen minutes into the second period, Kaliati unleashed a precise shot that beat Mafco FC goalkeeper Christopher Mikuwa, setting the tone for what would become a comprehensive 3-1 victory for the Nomads.

The goal opened the floodgates for Mighty Wanderers, with Blessings Singini and Felix Zulu adding their names to the scoresheet to put the match beyond Mafco’s reach. China Chirwa managed to pull one back for the visitors, but it proved to be merely a consolation as the Nomads cruised to victory.

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Agent rewards excellence

Speaking after the match, Kaliati’s manager/agent James Kasambala explained the reasoning behind the generous reward, emphasizing his commitment to motivating his client and recognizing exceptional performances.

“Isaac showed exactly why he won the golden boot last season with that magnificent strike,” Kasambala said. “The MK100,000 is not just a reward for the goal, but recognition of his continued dedication and professionalism. As his manager, I believe in incentivizing excellence and showing my client that outstanding performances deserve special recognition.”

Kasambala, who has been managing Kaliati’s career, believes that such rewards help maintain high standards and motivation throughout the season.

“Isaac has been working incredibly hard, and despite limited game time this season, he’s maintained his professionalism and readiness. When opportunities come, he takes them with both hands. This is the kind of commitment that deserves to be rewarded,” the manager/agent added.

Kaliati’s Grateful Response

The talented midfielder, popularly known as “Chair” among the Mighty Wanderers faithful, expressed his gratitude for the recognition while promising to continue giving his all on the pitch.

“I’m very grateful to James for this gesture. Having a manager who recognizes and rewards your efforts means everything to a player,” Kaliati said after receiving the bonus. “This reward will definitely fuel my motivation to work even harder and continue delivering quality performances whenever I’m called upon.”

Despite having limited appearances this campaign, Kaliati has already found the back of the net three times, demonstrating his clinical finishing ability whenever opportunities arise.

“Even when I’m not starting regularly, I always try to stay ready and make an impact when called upon. Football is a team sport, and whether I’m starting or coming from the bench, my focus is always on helping Mighty Wanderers win,” he explained.

The performance and subsequent reward come at a crucial time for Kaliati, who is entering the final six months of his current contract with Mighty Wanderers. The deal is set to expire in December, and both parties are yet to reach an agreement on terms for a new contract.

This uncertainty adds an extra dimension to every performance, as Kaliati looks to demonstrate his continued value to the club. His manager/agent Kasambala will undoubtedly be working behind the scenes to secure the best possible deal for his client.

A decorated career at Mighty Wanderers

Since joining Mighty Wanderers from Tigers in 2015, Kaliati has established himself as one of the most important players in the club’s recent history. His trophy cabinet with the Nomads tells the story of a player who has been central to the team’s success over the past decade.

The midfielder played a crucial role in Mighty Wanderers’ TNM Super League triumph in 2017, helping to end the club’s long wait for league glory. His contributions were equally vital in the Standard Bank Cup victory in 2015, coming just months after his arrival from Tigers.

More recent successes include the Airtel Top 8 Cup in 2022 and the Castel Challenge Cup in 2024, competitions where Kaliati’s experience and quality proved decisive in key moments. These achievements have cemented his status as a club legend and justify his manager’s continued investment in rewarding exceptional performances.

For Kasambala, representing a player of Kaliati’s caliber while dealing with contract uncertainties presents both opportunities and challenges. The agent will be hoping that gestures like the MK100,000 bonus demonstrate his commitment to his client while also helping secure favorable contract terms.

“Isaac is a special talent who has given so much to Mighty Wanderers over the years. My role is to ensure he gets the recognition and compensation he deserves for his contributions. This bonus is just one way of showing that excellence should always be rewarded,” Kasambala concluded.

The agent’s approach of rewarding standout performances reflects a modern understanding of player motivation and career management, setting a precedent that could influence how other player representatives operate in Malawian football.

The coming weeks will be crucial for both Kaliati and his representative Kasambala as they navigate contract negotiations while the player continues to deliver strong performances on the field, all while Mighty Wanderers maintain their push for silverware in the current season.