Andile Jali did not travel with his Belgian club KV Oostende on a tour to England due to problems obtaining a visa.
The former Orlando Pirates midfielder was due to play for Oostende in a preseason friendly against Turkish side Besiktas on Sunday in Manchester.
Jali was not the only one singled out. Oostende’s other African stars, Gabon international goalkeeper Didier Ovono and Senegalese striker Sébastien Siani, also did not travel with the group.
The reason for the paperwork issues is not clear, and the fault would appear to lie with the club, who apparently did not apply for the documents in time.
Jali has been a central figure for Oostende in pre-season and is looking to have a big first full season in Belgium with his ambitious club.