Rowan Human to join AmaZulu – Report

Rowan Human to join AmaZulu – Report

In yet even more interesting news in this winter’s transfer window, according to the SABC Sport, Maritzburg United midfielder Rowan Human will join DStv Premiership side AmaZulu.

This is not an extremely shocking move for Human, who became a very demanded player after the Team of Choice was relegated to the Motsepe Foundation Championship in the past season.

ALSO READ: Limpopo promotional playoffs postponed again

The 22-year-old star got too much interest from various Premiership clubs. This includes the Soweto giants, Kaizer Chiefs, SuperSport United, Cape Town City, as well as KwaZulu-Natal outfit Royal AM.

It has been long rumoured that Chiefs were hugely after Human during the 2022/2023 PSL Playoffs, in which Maritzburg was participating, however, after the arrival of AmaZulu’s new coach Pablo Franco Martin, Usuthu appeared to be the front-runners.

And now, per the report, it is understood that the former Maccabi Tel Aviv player’s move to KwaZulu-Natal is imminent.

ROWAN HUMAN ON THE VERGE OF JOINING AMAZULU

In joining Usuthu, Bafana Bafana attacking midfielder will have a massive challenge for potential playing time next season. He will have to compete against the likes of Sphesihle Maduna, George Maluleka, Ethan Brooks and Celimpilo Ngema amongst others.

Human was part of the 2023 Bafana Bafana Cosafa Cup squad. He also played a total of 31 matches last season for Maritzburg under the then-coach Fadlu Davids. He has scored three goals and registered three assists.

By Clifton Mabasa

AmaZulu name ex-Madrid assistant Pablo Martin as new boss

AmaZulu name ex-Madrid assistant Pablo Martin as new boss

Former Real Madrid assistant coach Pablo Franco Martin has been named AmaZulu’s new head coach, the club announced on Tuesday.

Pablo has signed a three-year contract until June 2026 at the KwaZulu-Natal outfit, and he is understood to be tasked with steering Usuthu to fight for top positions in the DStv Premiership.

ALSO READ: Limpopo legend cries foul over treatment 

Former LA Liga’s Getafe boss has been out of work since last year May, when his time with the Tanzanian giants, Simba SC came to an end. But he is now back in Africa to take charge of Usuthu.

The Spanish coach replaces Ayanda Dlamini who was in charge as an interim coach towards the end of the season. Usuthu ended in position 12 in the 2022/2023 season under its former striker’s guidance.

Dlamini was appointed after AmaZulu restructured their technical team, moving head coach Romain Folz to a technical advisor role. Both Dlamini and Folz have now parted ways with the club.

PABLO FRANCO MARTIN NAMED NEW AMAZULU COACH

The club’s President Sandie Zungu has confirmed the appointment of Martin as the 43-year-old tactician. He emerged as the unanimous choice among the club’s board.

“Following an intense two weeks after the announcement to appoint the new Head Coach of Usuthu, Club President Sandile Zungu has today roped in the services of Spaniard, Pablo Franco Martin on a 36-month-long deal,” said Zungu in a statement.

AmaZulu name ex-Madrid assistant Pablo Franco Martin as new boss
AmaZulu President Sandie Zungu

“We are absolutely delighted at the quality of the parties that we interviewed. Usuthu is loved and seen as a very attractive prospect. We emerged with one name. A name that the players will be very happy with, the supporters, sponsors, and directors of AmaZulu Football Club. We believe that the local league will be richer with a person of this gentleman’s calibre coming to the DSTV Premiership.

“In true Usuthu tradition style, Gwabini has dubbed the Spaniard, “Cijimpi” which is synonymous with sharpening of Zulu warriors to war. Franco will also join the squad next week to begin his pre-season program.”


By Clifton Mabasa

BREAKING NEWS: Folz redeployed by AmaZulu 

BREAKING NEWS: Folz redeployed by AmaZulu 

PSL club AmaZulu have announced that the club has redeployed coach Romain Folz to a technical advisor position with immediate effect. 

The decision comes after some poor results in which the club also finds themselves in position 12 on the DStv Premiership standings. Ayanda Dlamini has been appointed interim head coach until the end of the season. 

“AmaZulu President, Sandile Zungu has announced changes to the club’s head coach role with assistant coach Ayanda Dlamini appointed interim head coach. Romain Folz has been redeployed to the role of technical director, advising the president on the technical aspects of AmaZulu’s Vision 2032,” the club announced. 

AMAZULU BOSS EXPLAINS THE TECHNICAL TEAM CHANGES 

Zungu explained the changes begin with immediate effect until the end of the season.

“The game is result driven and with six matches to go occupying 12th position. It is clear the performance is not fitting for a club like AmaZulu Football Club,” he said.

Romain Folz redeployed by AmaZulu 
Ayanda Dlamini and Romain Folz

“The decision we have taken is to appoint Ayanda Dlamini as caretaker Coach until the end of the season. His mandate is to fight for the remaining 18 points that are on offer.” 

“Dlamini has the huge task to prepare the team for the upcoming match against Cape Town City this weekend.” 

WHY ROMAIN FOLZ WAS REDEPLOYED 

“With Folz, there are also many aspects that we want to continue with from him. I have retained him as a technical director, primarily to advise the President on the technical aspects of vision 2032 until the end of the season.” 

“He will be expected not to interfere with the day to day running of the team. We also thank him for his contribution to the team,” added Zungu. 

AmaZulu’s DStv Premiership fixtures in April: 

09 April: Cape Town City (Away)

23 April: Supersport United (Away)

and also 29 April: Sekhukhune United (Home)

Sphesihle Maduna emerges as a Chiefs target 

Sphesihle Maduna emerges as a Chiefs target 

Kaizer Chiefs’ targets in the next transfer window are likely to be various players from the DStv Premiership teams, including AmaZulu midfielder Sphesihle Maduna. This is according to a report by FarPost.

Seemingly, Chief’s coach Arthur Zwane needs midfield stability, and right now, as we’ve seen, if some players get injuries or suspensions, things get brittle quickly.

And according to the report, Usuthu’s Maduna would be a fabulous novice presence to fortify and stabilize the midfield for the Glamour Boys as they have already approached the KwaZulu-Natal outfit for his services.

AMAZULU APPROACHED FOR SPHESIHLE MADUNA SERVICES

The report states that the Soweto giants have already shown an interest in the attacking midfielder, as the AmaZulu president Sandile Zungu confirmed the news.

Kaizer Chiefs set sights on signing Sphesihle Maduna.
Kaizer Chiefs set sights on signing Sphesihle Maduna.

“Kaizer Chiefs did talk to us some time ago. It’s just one of the parties that contacted us about Maduna,” Zungu told FarPost.

However, Zungu put it clear that the 23-year-old midfielder is still committed to his club. Maduna is contracted to Usuthu for at least a year, and that could theoretically not be simple.

Also read: Zwane reacts to Kaizer Chiefs fans booing him

“He’s our player for quite some time. He signed a new contract two seasons ago. I hear people saying he’s going to end this season. He’s got another season with us,” he said.

Due to injuries throughout the season. The AmaZulu development graduate has only played 13 matches this season for the Durban heavyweights. He scored just a goal and assisted once in all competitions.

Dondol beat AmaZulu to advance to Nedbank Cup quarterfinals 

Dondol beat AmaZulu to advance to Nedbank Cup quarterfinals 

ABC Motsepe League side Dondol Stars have caused another Nedbank Cup upset after beating AmaZulu in the last 16. The Gauteng side beat their PSL counterparts 5-4 in a penalty shootout. 

DONDOL STARS BEAT AMAZULU IN NEDBANK CUP 

The match ended 1-1 after extra time. This is the second match that the minnows beat a Premiership side. They advanced to the last 16 after beating SuperSport United in the last 32.

“I hoped and I prayed that our boys would come to the party and they did,” Dondol co-coach Khuliso Rashamuse told SuperSport TV.

“After we played 90 minutes, we pushed our players. We encouraged them because we didn’t have anything to lose. We told them that if they can go the extra mile then go for it because that’s what we need. That was the difference between us winning and losing the match which we did. They came to the party, they danced and had fun. 

FOOTBALL GODS ON DONDOL SIDE DURING PENALTY SHOOTOUT

“Penalties are a lottery, anything can happen. Fortunately enough the football Gods were on our side and we managed to score five,” said Rashamuse referring to the penalty shootout. 

Whitehead Nameka takes on Abbubaker Mobara of AmaZulu during the Nedbank Cup win on Wednesday
Whitehead Nameka takes on Abbubaker Mobara during the Nedbank Cup win on Wednesday

“It was in the players’ hearts, they wanted it the most and that’s why we won it. Besides us making history, it’s a great achievement for the team, the Chairman of the team who has been through a lot over the past few years,” he continued. 

“This will bring joy into his heart but we want to remain humble and respectful, and focus on the league because if we win then we go to the Motsepe Foundation Championship, and our lives can change.” 

ALSO READ: Chiefs, Pirates get home Nedbank Cup last 16 draws 

AmaZulu coach Romain Folz believes the missed chances by his players cost them a last-eight spot. 

“First of all congratulations to the opponents for the simple reason that they scored the penalties and we missed one. In the field of play, I believe we put ourselves in trouble by missing so many chances. We hit the post twice, we had four or five chances but we missed.”

RELATED POST: Home Defenders advance to Nedbank Cup last 16

How Makhehlene Makhaula move to Pirates nearly collapsed 

How Makhehlene Makhaula move to Pirates nearly collapsed 

Newly signed Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula has explained how his move to the club was close to being delayed by another six months. 

Makhaula was announced on a one-and-a-half-year deal from AmaZulu on the last day of the January transfer window period. 

The former Usuthu skipper has been one of the consistent performers in the PSL for the past few seasons. 

The move to the Buccaneers came as no surprise for the 33-year-old. Speaking to journalists on Monday ahead of the Soweto derby, Makhaula explains how the move nearly collapsed.

“I first heard it from my agent [Sizwe Ntshangase], He is the one who called me. We had been trying to push the move to happen during the January transfer period,” he said. 

Ben Motshwari and Makhehlene Makhaula
Ben Motshwari and Makhehlene Makhaula

“So on the 30th he told me that we should leave it and we will look at it again at the end of the season. But around 11 or 12pm on that day he told me to pack because we are going to Johannesburg.

ORLANDO PIRATES MOVE A DREAM COME TRUE FOR MAKHEHLENE MAKHAULA 

“I was surprised and I couldn’t sleep because I did not believe that I was going to join Pirates. I couldn’t believe it because earlier on he told me something else but later on it was happening so I couldn’t sleep,” added Makhaula. 

“But it was all happening and he assured me in the morning to say the two chairmen [Sandile Zungu and Dr Irvin Khoza] have come to an agreement. So I had to go say my bye to the teammates at AmaZulu, it was sad but had to happen.” 

WHY HE CHOSE JERSEY NUMBER 36

“There was no other number that I could have used. But the more I thought of Oupa [Manyisa] because he started at Pirates with number 36. So I told myself that I should revive the number.”

ALSO READ: Makhehlene Makhaula joins Orlando Pirates

Makhehlene Makhaula joins Orlando Pirates

Makhehlene Makhaula joins Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates have announced the signing of midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula from AmaZulu on a one-and-a-half-year deal.

Makhaula has spent the past three seasons at Usuthu and was one of the best performers at the club. He was also made team captain in the process.

ORLANDO PIRATES ANNOUNCE MAKHEHLENE MAKHAULA 

“The club would like to thank AmaZulu management for the professional manner in how the transfer of Makhaula was handled,” the club said in a statement on Tuesday.

“Usuthu, through the leadership and guidance of Chairman Sandile Zungu, was transparent and cooperative throughout the negotiations, making the process quick and smooth for both clubs.

“We would like to commend the board for their conduct and wish them all the best for the remainder of the season,” said Pirates.

MAKHAULA GRATEFUL FOR THE AMAZULU EXPERIENCE 

The 33-year-old has expressed his delight for joining the Buccaneers.

“I am so happy to have signed for one of the biggest clubs in the country,” he told the club’s website.

“It’s a dream come true for me. I am looking forward to meeting up with my new teammates and helping the Club move towards reaching their objectives.

Makhehlene Makhaula joins Orlando Pirates
Makhehlene Makhaula joins Orlando Pirates

“As I begin a new chapter in my career, I cannot do so without paying homage to my former club. To the entire board, the technical team, my teammates and the supporters of Usuthu, thank you all for everything you have done for me,” concluded Makhaula.

AmaZulu president, Sandile Zungu has also commended the experienced midfielder’s professionalism since joining Usuthu. 

“Makhaula leaves with our full blessings,” said Zungu. 

“He has served the club very well as captain and was the recipient of the President’s and the player’s player of the year awards two seasons ago with merit,” he added. 

In his career that started in 2014, Makhaula also played for Free State Stars as well as now defunct Highlands Park.

Also read: Orlando Pirates sign Cameroonian striker Souaibou Marou

AmaZulu announce plans for development structures 

AmaZulu announce plans for development structures 

PSL club AmaZulu on Thursday announced a lineup of youth development academy staff with some former stars getting involved. 

Reneilwe Letsholonyone, Mbulelo Mabizela and Andile Cele are some of the big names appointed to mould the future players at Usuthu. 

OPERATION VISION 2032 

Club Director Mfundo Zungu outlined the plans for the newly restructured youth academy. This is part of the club’s vision 2032 project. 

“One of president Sandile Zungu’s wishes, among results, achievements and winning trophies by 2032 which is the club’s centenary year, the majority of the squad must be home-grown talent,” said Zungu.

“We were very intentional with the recruitment process of the people we have brought in. “We wanted good and qualified people who believe in the vision and want to be here for the long-term.”

“The club needs to use a science backed approach and we intend to mirror what we’ve studied, be it from the first team and international academies to yield favourable outcomes for AmaZulu,” said Zungu. 

The new recruits join a host of other coaches which include the likes of DDC 

AmaZulu vision 2032 official launch
AmaZulu vision 2032 official launch

assistant coach Siyabonga Nomvethe. They will work alongside DDC Head Coach, Siboniso Vilakazi as they continue to make a significant effort towards shaping young germs at Usuthu under the leadership of Co-Technical Directors, Ronnie Moroka and Celo Mbanjwa.

First team High Performance Manager, as well as Strength & Conditioning Coaches, Joshua Smith and Zunaid Crowie will also be playing a more active role in incubating their expertise and experience to the youth structures. 

AMAZULU FULL LIST OF NEW COACHING STAFF: 

Aubrey Vilakazi, Goalkeeper Coach 

Andile Cele: U19 Head Coach 

Reneilwe Letsholonyane: U17 Head Coach 

Amanda Sithole: U17 Assistant Coach, Fitness & Conditioning Trainer 

Brice Petersen: U15 Head Coach

Taoni Banda: U15 Assistant Coach

Nqoba Mdladla: U13 Head Coach

Mbulelo Mabizela: U13 Assistant Coach

Referee Moeketsi Max Molelekoa die in an accident

Referee Moeketsi Max Molelekoa die in an accident

The South African Football Association (SAFA) have confirmed the passing of FIFA assistant referee Moeketsi Max Molelekoa.

Molelekoa passed away in a motor vehicle on Friday night. He was born in Botshabelo, Free State and made his PSL debut in 2014. Molelekoa was also a popular figure in South African football circles.

SAFA MOURNS LATE MATCH OFFICIAL

“The South African Football Association (SAFA) is deeply saddened by the news of FIFA assistant referee Max Molelekoa’s passing,” said SAFA in a statement on Saturday.

“Our deepest sympathy goes out to his family at this difficult time,” said SAFA head of referees, Abdul Ebrahim.

“The refereeing fraternity in South Africa is saddened by this loss. May his soul rest in peace.

“SAFA will reveal details of his funeral service and other related activities in due course. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, loved ones and friends.”

Moeketsi Max Molelekoa has passed on following a car accident on Friday
Moeketsi Max Molelekoa has passed on following a car accident on Friday

MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR MOEKETSI MAX MOLELEKOA

Meanwhile, the Premier Soccer League have announced there will be a moment of silence in all their fixtures this weekend.

“The Premier Soccer League (PSL) is saddened by the passing of SAFA match official, Moeketsi Molelekoa.

“The League sends heartfelt condolences to the Molelekoa family, SAFA, and the football fraternity at large,” they wrote in a statement.

“The PSL will observe a moment of silence in his honour ahead of this weekend’s DStv Premiership, DStv Diski Challenge, and Motsepe Foundation Championship fixtures. May his soul repose peacefully.”

Molelekoa’s career was also without controversy. In 2021, he together with referee Jelly Chavani received a six-week ban. This is for a dubious decision in a match between Kaizer Chiefs and AmaZulu.

The SAFA referee’s review committee found the pair guilty of not acting in accordance with Law 12 of the IFAB Laws of the Game. Chavani awarded Chiefs a penalty in stoppage time, after consulting with Molelekoa who was his assistant at the match.

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Yusuf Maart optimistic of turning the corner

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Yusuf Maart optimistic of turning the corner

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Yusuf Maart is looking to put last weekend’s setback against Sekhukhune United behind him and get the season back on track. Kaizer Chiefs will take on AmaZulu in a DStv Premiership encounter at Moses Mabhida stadium in Durban on Friday evening.

Maart wants to show that the disappointing result on the Club’s 53rd birthday was merely a blip by turning out a much improved performance against Usuthu.

KAIZER CHIEFS MIDFIELDER MAART POSITIVE

“We worked very hard during the December break and it showed in our first two games back,” said Maart.

“Unfortunately, it didn’t go our way in the last game, but we are very keen to put that right against AmaZulu.”

The teams meet for the third time this season, having played once in the league and twice in the MTN8 semifinal. All three matches ended in draws, something Maart is acutely aware of.

“I said that to Ashley (Du Preez),” he notes with a big smile, “but he told me not to worry, he is positive. When we go there, we’ll win for sure.”

ON HIS PARTNERSHIP WITH SAMKELO ZWANE

The departure of Njabulo Blom to St. Louis City in the American MLS has necessitated a slight positional adjustment for Maart as he forges a new understanding with prodigious young talent, Samkelo Zwane, in the Chiefs engine room.

Samkelo Zwane
Samkelo Zwane

Maart, though, has taken it in his stride, explaining.

“At the end of the day I just need to work hard, as always. To have Zwane with me is good, because he’s learning what it takes to play at this level. I had a good partnership with Blom, but this is football and I need to be able to play with whomever is in the team. I think I’m clicking with everyone who is playing around me.”

Like Chiefs, AmaZulu are also going into the match off the back of a defeat and Maart is ready for a titanic battle for supremacy in Durban.

“They lost their last game and so did we. Both of us need the points, so we are going to have to want it more than them. Even though it is their home game, we are going to come with more effort and make sure we get the points,” he concludes.