Orlando Pirates are trimming some surplus playing personnel. Two senior players have played their last games for the club.
Maela leaves with half a dozen trophies
The 32-year-old was a bit-part player in his swansong season after falling down the pecking order in defence. Always praised for his versatility, Maela could seamlessly operate at left-back or in the heart of defence. In 2024-2025, however, opportunities were limited. The man with 15 Bafana caps ends his playing career with Pirates but could take up a role within the club’s structures. In just under eight years, he made 208 appearances, winning six trophies. Miguel Timm is also officially leaving the club.
Nine Orlando Pirates stars make final Bafana squad
Sipho Chaine, Deano van Rooyen, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Simphiwe Selepe, Thalente Mbatha, Patrick Maswanganyi, Rele Mofokeng and Mohau Nkota are the nine selected. Evidence Makgopa and Tshegofatso Mabasa were in the preliminary group but didn’t make the final cut.
Latest Pirates transfer rumours
What are your best Timm and Maela memories in a Bucs jersey?
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