Nineteen-year-old Assan Saeed Ajida's journey from playing street soccer with a plastic ball in Dzivarasekwa, a high-density suburb of Harare, to becoming a rising star for the legendary CAPS United is a testament to his grit, resilience, and raw talent.
Ajida's story is an inspiring one, full of twists, turns, and a deep-seated passion for the beautiful game.
It all started at the age of nine when his late grandfather, Sekuru Ajida, noticed his potential and bought him his first pair of soccer boots.
His father, Assan Ajida, a former Caps United player, then enrolled him at the Dzivarasekwa Academy under the tutelage of coach Effort Murindagomo.
Ajida thrived, his skills catching the eye of former Warriors defender Takudzwa Chimwemwe and Stephen Matsingaise, who recommended him to the prestigious Aces Youth Academy (AYSA).
AYSA is a renowned talent factory that has produced some of Zimbabwe's finest footballers, including Khama Billiat, Knowledge Musona, and the late George Chigova among many others.
At AYSA, Ajida, nicknamed 'Seedo26' or 'Mahrez' due to his slick footwork, quickly became a standout player.
His former coach, the late Emmanuel Manene, regarded him as one of the best at the academy.
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He consistently delivered impressive performances, earning accolades like "Player of the Tournament" and "Most Valuable Player" during his time at the football school.
Ajida's dream didn't come on a silver platter. His small stature presented a significant challenge, making it difficult for him to compete against physically imposing opponents.
This, combined with the fierce competition, meant that for a whole month, he trained with CAPS United without a contract offer.
But Ajida didn't give up. His patience and hard work paid off when CAPS United coach Lloyd Chitembwe noticed his technical skills and tactical intelligence.
"I extend my gratitude to Coach Lloyd Chitembwe for giving me this opportunity to showcase my talent on the big stage," Ajida said, emphasising his appreciation for the legendary coach.
Chitembwe's faith in the young midfielder was evident when, in a match against Ngezi Platinum Stars, he made Ajida the captain in the 82nd minute, entrusting him with the armband in the presence of seasoned players like Bruce Kangwa and Phenias Bamusi.
This was a significant moment, showing the immense belief the club had in his potential.
Despite the early success, Ajida faces a new set of challenges. He has yet to earn a starting spot under new coach Ian Bakala due to stiff competition from experienced midfielders like Tanaka Shandirwa and Kundai Benyu.
However, his determination remains unshaken.
"As a small football player, I have faced challenges like competing for headers and dealing with physicality from iron-built opponents," he acknowledged. "However, I have worked on developing my technical skills, agility, and tactical awareness to outmanoeuvre opponents."
Ajida’s ambitions are clear: he wants to become a regular starter, help Caps United win titles, and one day play in Europe and for the national team.
