Kruger United midfielder George Maluleka has discussed why he turned a blind eye on top-flight offers opting for a move to the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
The 35-year-old joined the Mpumalanga-based club in September on a free transfer following his departure from AmaZulu FC at the end of the previous season.
The former Kaizer Chiefs man reportedly penned a one-year deal and an option to extend with Kruger.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with this website, Maluleka revealed that there were a few offers presented on his table including some from the Betway Premiership clubs.
He expressed that, after being impressed by Kruger’s project and successfully negotiating with them, it made sense for him to put pen to paper.
Maluleka also cited the club’s proximity to his home as a factor in his decision to join the second-tier newbies.
MALULEKA ON WHY HE ELECTED TO JOIN KRUGER OVERLOOKING TOP-FLIGHT TEAMS
“There were offers even from the Premier League teams that I received,” Maluleka told FARPost. “But it had to make sense and I think right now Nelspruit is the closest out of all the provinces I could have gone to.
- George Maluleka – Picture courtesy of Kruger United/Facebook
“There’s a bigger project over here at Kruger that the club wants to achieve which I felt also spoke to me.
“So, I’m really looking forward to what’s to come in future here at Kruger United.”
Asked, how long he was planning to go, he admitted that days to hang the boots are getting closer, however, he believes he’s got a lot of unfinished business.
THE 35-YEAR-OLD MALULEKA ON HOW LONG HE WANTS TO GO
“At 35, I’m still very young, there’s still a lot more to do I believe,” he added
“I don’t wanna put a time or a limit to say when my days of kicking the ball will end.
“But I know they are close, I just want to bow out gracefully having done my part and also for the next generation and upcoming youngsters.
“I feel I still have a lot to do in that area. I’ll be able to do that [helping youngsters] while I’m still on the field at Kruger, even afterwards when I decide to hang the boots.
“I think I will know and I’m honest enough to always say to myself that the time is near and I’ll make that announcement of retiring.”
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