Former AmaTuks and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Joseph ‘Mtororo’ Mthombeni has sadly passed away, the University of Pretoria Football Club confirmed.
Mthombeni played for Tuks between 2009 and 2011 before joining Thanda Royal Zulu. Before his stint with Tuks, the Transnet School of Excellence product was somewhat known as a super-sub at Sundowns.
On Wednesday, Tuks announced his untimely passing at the age of just 43.
“The University of Pretoria Football Club (“AmaTuks”) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of former captain Joseph “Mtororo” Mthombeni, who served the club with distinction between 2009 and 2011 before joining Thanda Royal Zulu for the 2011/2012 season. Mthombeni is remembered as a remarkable and influential footballer—quiet, calm, and reserved off the field, yet commanding, expressive, and powerful through his performances on it. He spoke little, but his football always made the loudest statement.
“During his time at AmaTuks, he became known for outstanding technical ability, strong tactical understanding and excellent game intelligence. These qualities made him one of the most reliable and impactful players of his era. As captain, he led not with words, but with extraordinary presence and consistency. His contribution helped shape a crucial period in AmaTuks’ football journey.
“Joseph was a quiet leader—reserved in person, but a giant on the pitch. His intelligence, technical quality, and dedication left a lasting mark on everyone at AmaTuks,” said former teammate Tebogo Monyai. “We honour not only the player he was, but the person he was to those who knew him best.”
“The entire AmaTuks community extends heartfelt condolences to the Mthombeni family, his friends, former teammates, and all who were touched by his life. His legacy will forever remain part of AmaTuks history.”
From everyone at iDiski Times we would like to express our condolences to Mthombeni’s family and friends, his former clubs and teammates, as well as the broader football fraternity.
