Zvishavane footballer Noviro aims to represent the national team and clubs around the world

KUDZAI CHITSATSO

ZVISHAVANE – Former FC Platinum player Novan 'Noviro' Mupfudza (24), who is based in Zvishavane, is aiming to expand his football career wings by representing the Zimbabwean men's football national team and clubs around the world. 

Image: Supplied 

Speaking with ZimSphere, Noviro said after stepping away from football in 2022 to pursue a diploma in Auto Electrics, he could not find anything else that brings him joy and satisfaction as football does; and so he is now aiming to get back in shape and represent his country and other football clubs around the world.

"I couldn't balance up school and football as l was studying Auto Electrics so my schedule was tight for me to go for training sessions or games so l decided to hold my football career in 2022 and finish up my school," he said.

"After stepping away from football to explore other paths in life, I found that nothing brought me the same fulfillment as the sport l love.

"So, unable to find peace without football, l have decided to reignite my passion and pursue his dreams once more.

"I am aiming to represent my national team and play for clubs around the world, with a particular interest in joining teams in Asia. 

"And I am eager for the opportunity to showcase his talent on a global stage."

Beyond his personal aspirations, Noviro is driven by a desire to give back to the sport that gives him the satisfaction he desires.  

Once he secures a position, he hopes to help bridge the gap for young, aspiring footballers, guiding them to pursue their dreams of becoming professional players.

Noviro is currently training alone to get back in shape incase he found an opportunity to do some trials.

During the FC Platinum days 

Now 24-years-old, he began his football journey at the age of six, cultivating his skills on the streets before making his mark at Shabani Primary School. 

By 2009, while still in Grade Four, Novan made history as the first junior player to earn a spot on the school's first team. His talent quickly gained attention, leading to his selection for the Zvishavane District team in 2010. 

That same year, he was recognized as one of the brightest young prospects and was chosen to represent the Midlands Province.

In 2011, Novan’s potential caught the eye of Mr. Tendai Chikuni, former head coach of FC Platinum’s first team, who brought him into the FC Platinum Juniors. 

Over the next three years, Novan honed his skills with the club’s under-13 team. His impressive performances earned him a full scholarship in 2014 to Guinea Fowl High School in Gweru, where all FC Platinum Juniors studied.

During his first year in high school, Novan’s versatility saw him playing for the Under-14 team, the Under-17s, and even the third team. His talent didn’t go unnoticed, and he was soon called up to train with the under-20 first team. 

Competing in the Under-20 zonal tournament up to the national level, Novan was named the Best Junior Player in the Midlands Province—a testament to his exceptional abilities on the field. He credits coach Jatson Maphosa for his belief in him, giving him the opportunity to play alongside older, more experienced players.

Throughout his early career, Novan shared the pitch with notable players like former Highlanders FC and Dynamos speedy winger Cleopas Kapupurika, also known as 'Gaucho,' and Telone FC player Blessing Sahondo. 

He also competed against prominent players such as former Cape Town City goalkeeper Tatenda Mukuruva and ligue 1 club Nantes and Zimbabwean international striker Tinotenda Kadewere.

In 2017, Novan participated in the prestigious Copa Coca-Cola NASH tournament in Bulawayo, one of Africa’s top youth tournaments. His outstanding performance caught the attention of Zimbabwe’s Under-17 selectors, earning him a spot on the national team that competed in the COSASA tournament in Botswana. 

Later that year, he was scouted by Mr. Edwin Manyeruke, director of Total Football Academy, who brought him into the academy to further his development.

Novan's journey is marked by dedication, hard work, and a passion for the game, making him a promising talent in the world of football. The hope is that he gets back to the sport he so much loves.