Ntumba Massanka's story is a testament to the harsh realities of the beautiful game. The lad was gutted when Manchester United kicked him to the curb, leaving him feeling like he'd been booted out of his own family. It's a tough pill to swallow, but that's life in the ruthless world of football.
Life after Man United
Despite the heartbreak, Massanka found his footing and went on to play for Burnley, and even had a stint at Wrexham before those Hollywood muppets took over. But it was his time at Macclesfield that really changed the game for him, both on and off the pitch.
From football to business
The striker's transition into the business world came during his time at Macclesfield, when he joined his mum and sister in their cake venture, Tshibangbakes. Massanka's passion for football never wavered, but he discovered that many of the skills he'd honed on the field were transferable to the business realm.
"I have a real passion for it, and I really enjoy being able to deliver really good desserts to people," Massanka shared. "I love networking. I have seen a massive change."
Pathways initiative and giving back
Massanka's story is a prime example of the importance of finding a second hobby outside of football. The Pathways Tournament x Career Fair, launched by Jeremie Frimpong and managed by Cedrick Ofori, aims to help young players discover new career opportunities beyond the pitch.
Having experienced the heartbreak of leaving a top-tier club like Manchester United, Massanka knows all too well the challenges that young footballers face. He believes that clubs have a duty of care to their players, not just based on their football abilities, but also to help them find their passions outside of the beautiful game.
Now, with Tshibangbakes flourishing and his football skills being put to good use in the business world, Massanka's story is a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. The beautiful game may have knocked him down, but he's come back stronger than ever, ready to take on whatever life throws his way.