Madinga returning to Georgia after leaving Wanderers

Francisco Madinga has informed Mighty Wanderers that he will not renew his contract when it expires today, announces the club.

Club’s chief executive Officer, Panganan Ndovi had already announced that the player was leaving before the team released the system saying that they were in talks with him for a possible contract extension.

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Wa Mpira reported that the Nomads were willing to keep Madinga at the club beyond August as they prepare for the CAF Confederations Cup participation. The Club’s Head Coach and Technical Panel held a meeting with the player during their training session trying to convince him but he has turned down the extension offer.

Sources indicate that a key sticking point was the K900,000 monthly salary Madinga reportedly demanded, which Wanderers were unwilling to meet. Additionally, the club proposed paying his signing-on fee in installments, a condition that was not agreeable to the player.

The situation came to a head the previous week when Wanderers presented Madinga with a final contract offer, setting a weekend deadline for his signature. Madinga was subsequently dropped from the squad that traveled to Rumphi for a Super League match against Moyale Barracks as discussions around his future intensified. He ultimately did not sign the deal, signaling his rejection of the terms.

He returned to the team’s training last week as the team was preparing to face Chitipa United. He played during the weekend before being taken off after picking up an injury.

Madinga returning to Europe?

According to the statement released by Mighty Wanderers, Madinga has informed them that he is returning to Europe, Georgia where he has signed with an unnamed club.

“Mighty Wanderers FC wishes to confirm that Francisco Madinga will be leaving the club upon the expiry of his contract on 6th August, 2025.

“Francisco has informed the club of his decision not to renew his contract as he intends to pursue an opportunity with a club in Georgia where he previously played. We thank Francisco for his dedication and service to the club,” reads the statement.

Madinga initially joined Wanderers on loan from Namiwawa Rangers alongside Precious Sambani before making his move permanent. He became a crucial player for the club, even attracting interest from top African clubs like Orlando Pirates. In 2020, he moved to Georgian side Dila Gori FC on a three-year deal. After his stint in Europe, he returned to Africa, playing for Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy before rejoining Wanderers in the mid-season transfer window of 2023.

A notable asset for the Malawi National Team, Madinga played a significant role in the Flames’ qualification for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. He also starred in the tournament in Cameroon, famously providing an assist for Gabadinho Mhango’s goal against Zimbabwe.