Former Orlando Pirates star ‘held hostage’ in Egypt

Former Orlando Pirates winger Justin Shonga has reportedly terminated his contract with Ismailly in an acrimonious fashion.

Shonga’s agent told Soccer Laduma that Ismailly have failed to pay the striker his wages for his entire stint with the Egyptian club.

After his release from Orlando Pirates, Shonga spent a brief spell at Cape Town City before signing with Ismailly but what seemed like a dream move is believed to have turned into a nightmare.

Former Orlando Pirates winger Justin Shonga ‘held hostage’ in Egypt

Shonga’s representative Karabo Tshabuse has claimed that the player was effectively held hostage after the club withheld his passport.

“Justin has not been paid since arrival, we sent the club a letter of demand, which they ignored, they then tell our client they have no money and Justin should leave for free, if he wants,” Tshabuse said.

“They (the club) withheld his passport and it was basically akin to a hostage situation. After several calls and threats to finally refer a dispute to FIFA did we reach a settlement late last night. If they fail to fully honour their commitment FIFA DRC will be their portion. This is not the only foreign player this is happening to. Benson Shilongo also left for the same reasons. Totally unacceptable in professional football,” Tshabuse said.

Once a central part of a Sea Robbers side that was challenging for the top-flight title, Shonga’s career has been beset by misfortune and threatens to turn into a story of wasted potential.

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What works in Shonga’s favour is the fact that he is still only 25-years-old and his best years might still be ahead of him.

It is unclear what Shonga’s next move will be but it has been speculated that he could return to South Africa or head back to Zambia.

Shonga played just four Egyptian Premier League for Ismailly but the timing of his release could, however, ensure that he is quickly thrust back into action.