ENGLAND – Zimbabwe Warriors prospect Courtney-Joshua (CJ) Nyakuhwa has signed a new one-year professional contract with English National League side Tamworth FC, marking another significant milestone in a career built on resilience, faith and determination.
By Advent Shoko
The deal keeps the versatile 20-year-old at Tamworth, who compete in the National League, the fifth tier of the English football pyramid, after an impressive campaign that saw him establish himself as a promising first-team player.
Speaking exclusively to ZiGoats, Nyakuhwa described the contract as the reward for a journey that nearly came to a painful end just 12 months ago.
“This deal means a lot because this time last year I left Notts County and was left without a club for three months,” he said.
“I nearly lost motivation and happiness, but God helped me realise and remember that He’s at work behind the scenes.”
The former Notts County youngster admitted watching former teammates progress while he remained clubless was emotionally difficult.
“I watched and congratulated all my other peers on their success and achievements. Although I was very happy for them, it still hurt that it wasn’t me.
“I knew my time was on its way because I’m a child of God.”
For Nyakuhwa, becoming a professional footballer fulfils a dream that began in childhood, but he insists the hard work has only just begun.
“This professional deal is what I have been working towards since I was a young boy and it’s now here.
“I’m happy, excited, eager, motivated and ambitious to keep progressing and be even better than I was last season.”
He added:
“The term ‘professional footballer’ is just a title. It means nothing if I don’t work hard to keep that title for the rest of my long career. I’m ready to work.”
Steady Rise Continues
Nyakuhwa’s latest achievement follows an impressive year of development.
Earlier this season, he enjoyed a productive loan spell at Nuneaton Town, where he announced himself with a Man of the Match display on his home debut, registering three assists in a commanding 4-0 victory.
His performances earned him a recall to Tamworth, where he quickly adapted to first-team football, even impressing while playing out of position at left-back during a crucial cup run.
ZiGoats has closely followed his journey over the past year as the Zimbabwean defender steadily strengthened his case for higher-level football.
Warriors Dream Still Alive
While his immediate focus is helping Tamworth enjoy a successful campaign, Nyakuhwa remains determined to represent Zimbabwe on the international stage.
“I just want to be the best version of myself I can be every day of this next season. The goal is to be one percent better than yesterday.”
He continued:
“I would love an international call-up for Zimbabwe, whether with the Under-23s or the first team. Just to be in and around it, I’m ready to represent my country.”
Although eligible for England, Nyakuhwa says he is prepared for whichever opportunity arrives first.
“I’m not ruling out a call-up for England, but whoever comes first, I’ll be ready to represent. I’m eager to represent.”
Those words are likely to excite Warriors supporters, particularly at a time when Zimbabwe continues to monitor talented diaspora players capable of strengthening the national team.
Eyes On Bigger Challenges
The defender believes the coming season could be the most important of his career.
“I’m ready to represent my club when given the opportunity, and I will grab that chance with both hands to make sure I leave no regrets.
“I think it will be a very exciting season. There is a lot to learn and apply to myself physically, mentally and spiritually that will make me the best player and person I can be.”
He added confidently:
“This time next year, my career would have heightened. I can tell you that for sure, as long as I continue working hard.”
Gratitude
Nyakuhwa reserved special thanks for those who stood by him during one of the most difficult periods of his football journey.
“God for everything. My family for the endless sacrifices they made to get me here, my agent for the care and support he showed me when I was clubless up until now, my close circle for supporting me, ZiGoats for the support and exposure to the sports world, those who keep praying for and supporting me, and even those who thought I wasn’t good enough.”
For Zimbabwean football, Nyakuhwa’s new contract is another encouraging sign that the country’s growing pool of diaspora talent continues to make strides abroad.
After overcoming rejection, uncertainty and months without a club, the young defender has earned another opportunity in the English professional game. Now, with a fresh contract in hand and international ambitions firmly intact, he is determined to prove that his best football is still ahead.
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