Orlando Pirates latest: Maela leaves, new captain for Bucs
Orlando Pirates will have a new captain in the upcoming season following the 'departure' of Innocent Maela.
Maela played his final game for the Buccaneers in Wednesday's 1-1 draw at home against Magesi FC.
The 32-year-old has 208 officials games under belt as a Pirates player. He scored six times and provided 12 assists.
Interim coach Mandla Ncikazi has already confirmed that Maela will be taking a different direction to his football career.
Reports suggest Maela will be handed a non-playing role within the Pirates family starting from next season.
Meanwhile, Pirates have announced the departure of midfield anchor Miguel Timm as previously reported by The South African.
Now, with Maela leaving, Tapelo Xoki is expected to take over as Pirates captain for the new season.
Xoki has worn the captain's armband in Maela's absence while Nkosinathi Sibisi is expected to be his deputy.
Both Xoki and Sibisi showed great leadership skills whenever they worn the captain's armband, and that is set to remain the same. Orlando Pirates club captain Innocent Maela Image via @SABCSport on X
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