By Zim Sport Live Writer
Corbin Mthunzi says his growing involvement with Ipswich Town’s first team has given him confidence that he is progressing in the right direction after featuring in the club’s pre-season preparations.
The 19-year-old Zimbabwe international defender has made consecutive appearances for Gary O’Neil’s side in friendlies against FC Cartagena and Osasuna and Oxford United marking his first sustained spell with the senior squad since joining Ipswich from Brighton & Hove Albion in April 2025.
Mthunzi, who played a full match against Cartagena before adding another 30-minute outing against Osasuna, said every opportunity at first-team level was helping his development.
“Yeah, it was good. Obviously, it’s good to get more minutes,” Mthunzi told the club’s media.
“Playing with the lads and keep building our connection, and (getting) 30 minutes more in the tank.”
The centre-back has impressed after breaking into the senior setup, having previously been a key figure in John McGreal’s Under-21 side during their debut Premier League 2 campaign last season.
Mthunzi also reflected on Ipswich’s pre-season training camp in Spain, where he trained alongside the club’s senior professionals.
“It was really tough as it was hot the whole time, but it was good to get to know the lads and be part of the team,” he said.
“It makes me feel good and I’m doing the right things. Obviously just keep on developing, keep getting better.”
The defender’s progress has also been recognised on the international stage. Eligible for Zimbabwe through his father, Mthunzi made his senior debut for the Warriors in March and has already earned three international caps after previously representing England at Under-15 level.
He described pulling on the Zimbabwe shirt as one of the proudest moments of his career.
“It was really good, a proud moment for me and my family as well,” he said.
“Being around other players, it just helps me build my game and me as a person.”
Still only 19, Mthunzi’s increasing involvement under O’Neil comes at an encouraging time as he looks to push for competitive first-team opportunities while continuing his rapid rise with both Ipswich Town and Zimbabwe.