Walter Musona is rewriting his story — this time as a leader, a winner, and a symbol of resurgence.
If Scottland go all the way this season, the Warriors forward will become the first player in local Premiership history to captain two different clubs to back-to-back league titles.
Last year, he lifted the trophy with Simba Bhora, having just joined the Shamva side from FC Platinum at the start of the campaign. His impact was instant: 10 goals, 7 assists, and a commanding presence that earned him the Soccer Star of the Year award.
It was a double triumph — his second league title and his second Soccer Star crown, both previously achieved with FC Platinum in 2022.
Now, with newly promoted Scottland punching above their weight in the top-flight, Musona’s influence is again impossible to ignore.
“I’m not dwelling much on that narrative,” Musona said, downplaying talk of records. “Scottland is doing a great job. We have very good players with both experience and the tactical edge to win the league. I just hope we keep firing on all cylinders. If I end up winning it again as captain, it’ll be a record I’ll definitely cherish.”
At 29, Musona stands at the heart of Zimbabwean football, vital for both club and country. He was instrumental in Zimbabwe’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, while continuing to shape domestic competition with decisive performances.
Yet just four years ago, his career could have stalled. Released by Polokwane City — a mid-table side in South Africa’s Premiership — he returned home facing the same crossroads that has ended the momentum of many Zimbabwean players.
For others, the story often ends there. Kingston Nkata, Michelle Katsvairo, Dani “Deco” Phiri — even solid performers like Evans Rusike — have struggled to recapture their peak after returning from South Africa.
But Musona is cut from different cloth. While Khama Billiat, Denver Mukamba, Partson Jaure, and Ronald Pfumbidzai have all enjoyed moments of brilliance, none has mounted a comeback quite like his — consistent, driven, and quietly relentless.
“When I came back from South Africa, I was determined to make it work,” Musona said. “I still had the hunger. I knew I hadn’t reached my full potential. I had to start all over. My family kept me grounded and reminded me to focus on football, not the disappointment. I didn’t feel pressure to prove anything, but I was motivated.”
Several clubs came calling, but he chose FC Platinum.
“I understood their philosophy. That made the transition easier. Things clicked in 2022 and gave me momentum. Two seasons later, I was leading Simba Bhora to the title. Now, I’m captaining Scottland.”
His journey — from being on the fringes in South Africa to starring for three of Zimbabwe’s top-paying clubs — raises the question: what if he had stayed at Polokwane City?
Would he have thrived, or would his career have drifted into obscurity?
We will never know. What is certain is that Musona has built something far greater: a reputation for resilience, leadership, and the rare ability to turn setbacks into silverware.
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