Whoop, whoop, roaring green-and-white hoops of Bloemfontein Celtic braced for PSL return
The heart of Free State's football fraternity is racing with anticipation as Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie is on the cusp of completing formalities for the return of the defunct Bloemfontein Celtic, fondly known as Siwelele, to the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
A consortium spearheaded by McKenzie is orchestrating the transition of the PSL franchise of beleaguered SuperSport United to Bloemfontein Celtic.
According to sources familiar with the deal, only the funds have yet to change hands, but information about the agreement suggests an imminent announcement will be made at the end of the current season.
McKenzie's commitment in this saga first came to light in February when he expressed a strong commitment to see the potential return of Bloemfontein Celtic to the PSL.
At the time, McKenzie told Botha Msila, Celtic's dedicated No 1 fan, that Celtic would soon be back in the PSL.
'I gave him my absolute word that Siwelele is coming back,' said McKenzie, who further underscored his belief in the group's capability to restore the club to their former glory.
'Many tried and failed, but this group will not fail. Exciting times ahead.'
The Free State-based club saw their top-flight status sold off amidst financial turmoil in August 2021.
The then-owner Max Tshabalala made the heart-wrenching decision to sell the club's PSL status due to crippling financial difficulties.
He sold to business mogul Shauwn Mkhize, popularly known as MamKhize, for R50 million.
Following the acquisition, she rebranded the team as Royal AM, sparking an outcry among loyal Celtic supporters who have long yearned for the beloved Siwelele back in the elite league.
It seems that McKenzie and his consortium were biding their time, and they struck when the franchise of the beleaguered SuperSport United became available.
Despite these mounting reports, SuperSport United's current management remains cautious.
Stan Matthews, the CEO of SuperSport United, has come forward to dismiss the speculation.
'Since 2019, there have been persistent rumours about the club being sold,' he stated. 'As far as I know, our main focus right now is to avoid relegation.'
Media queries directed to SuperSport's chair, Khulu Sibiya and media officer, Brian Moshoeshoe, have gone unanswered.
As speculation regarding the club's sale intensifies, the looming question remains: will SuperSport United finish the season strong enough to avert the playoffs and relegation, and subsequently, will these talks dissipate?
For now, the club's immediate fate lies in the next three games, crucial fixtures against Stellenbosch FC (May 17 away), Orlando Pirates (May 20 home) and Richards Bay (May 24 home) that will determine whether the sale will continue.
As discussions surrounding investment and club management continue, the prospect of revitalising Bloemfontein Celtic has ignited excitement across the region.
Fans, who have kept the club's spirit alive through unwavering support, await further updates with bated breath.
The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges, but the vision of seeing Siwelele return to the PSL again is beginning to feel tangible.
Over time, the loyalty of Celtic's fans has never waned, and many have continued to rally for the return of the club that holds a special place in the hearts of the local community.
The coming weeks will be critical for SuperSport United's survival in the league and the prospective return of Celtic's roaring green-and-white hoops to the South African football landscape.
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