Daniel Muzito-Bagenda, a popular forward with AIK, will not receive a new contract from the club. The 29-year-old departs after 249 matches and 170 points over five seasons. He described the business nature of hockey in an interview with HockeyNews.
AIK announced on Friday that it has parted ways with forward Daniel Muzito-Bagenda, choosing not to offer him a contract extension. The club made no further explanation public, and sportchef Lasse Johansson did not respond to inquiries from HockeyNews. Muzito-Bagenda learned of the decision through his agent and later received a call from Johansson, but he kept internal discussions private. 'The decision is made, it's not going to change,' he said, adding that he holds the warmth from fans close as he moves on. He told HockeyNews, 'Of course one becomes aware that it's a business you're in. You're no more than a product in the system.' On AIK's website, he expressed disappointment: 'Of course sad, not as planned. My and my family's intention was always to stay.' This season, injuries sidelined him early, but he returned in January with 14 points in 20 regular-season games and five points in six playoff matches. At 29, Muzito-Bagenda plans to continue playing, prioritizing a team that suits him and his family. He confirmed interest from other clubs exists.
