Highly regarded as a combative all-action midfielder, it came as little surprise when Tsiy Ndenge attracted interest from top European clubs such as FC Copenhagen and AEK Athens last summer.
As such, his decision to move to Singapore was seen as a coup for the Lion City Sailors, and he has since proven his worth with a series of impressive performances.
Tsiy’s quality was evident in the recent draw against title rivals BG Tampines Rovers, where the German-Cameroonian produced a commanding display in midfield and came close to finding the net himself.
“We started the game well and deserved to go in front early,” said Tsiy, who has already made 26 appearances for the club. “However, we couldn’t maintain our rhythm, and the game became more even. We did our best to create chances, but I feel we could have played better and taken three points.”
One of the Sailors’ headline arrivals at the start of the season, Tsiy has impressed with his consistency, which he credits to the strong bonds within the squad. He has formed a particularly close friendship with defender Lionel Tan, with the pair often spending time and having meals together off the pitch.
“I adapted quickly because the staff and players were really welcoming, which created a good environment for me,” he explained. “When I’m free, I focus on recovery and speak to my loved ones in Germany and Switzerland.”
That bond will be crucial as the Sailors enter a decisive stretch in their pursuit of back-to-back Singapore Premier LeagueS titles.
“Going out of both international competitions was disappointing because we wanted to challenge on all fronts,” said Tsiy. “But it gives us extra motivation to win as many points as possible and finish the league strongly.”
Tsiy has already experienced domestic success in Singapore, having played the full 120 minutes as the Sailors defeated BG Tampines in the Singapore Cup final last month. Lifting the first major trophy of his senior career has only sharpened his appetite.
“Winning my first league title would be huge. That is why I came here – to win trophies,” said Tsiy. “There are still many games left, so we must stay focused and keep winning.”
A fresh chapter now begins under newly appointed head coach Jesús Casas, who was unveiled earlier this week. The 52-year-old arrives with strong international pedigree, having most recently led the Iraq national football team and previously served as assistant coach of the Spain national football team.
After taking part in Jesús’s first training session, Tsiy is encouraged by what he has seen.
“Coach Jesús brings fresh ideas,” he said. “He wants us to play proactive, attacking football and enjoy ourselves on the pitch. Everyone is motivated to work hard for him.”
While continuing to anchor midfield with energy and authority, Tsiy is also determined to add more goals to his game. He opened his Sailors account last December in an Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two victory over Selangor FC, as he unleashed a powerful strike to end a lengthy scoring drought.
“It was frustrating at first because I missed chances and hit the bar a few times,” he admitted. “Scoring in that match felt very good, and I want to contribute more goals moving forward.”
The Sailors’ attention now turns to a stern test against Albirex Niigata (S) at Jurong East Stadium on Saturday (28 February). The White Swans have won five of their last six matches and boast an in-form striker in Shingo Nakano, who has scored 15 goals in 16 appearances across all competitions this season.
“I know every team is eager to beat us,” said Tsiy. “But we have to focus on ourselves. We want to show our quality, continue adapting to Coach Jesús’s ideas, and give the fans a performance they can enjoy.”
