DStv Premiership newcomers Richards Bay have made a quick and smart move a day before their first ever game in the top-flight after snatching highly-rated attacker Luvuyo Memela.
Memela has been one of the most consistent players in the DStv Prem in the last two seasons and had a good 2020/21 season in the colours of AmaZulu, making 36 appearances in all competitions with nine goals and an assist to his name.
The speedy winger walked away with three accolades at the Usuthu awards, Top Goal Scorer, Playmaker of the season, and Player’s Player of the season. But AmaZulu opted against retaining his services, which came as a surprise to many.
The past two weeks, there’s been a lot of talk about Memela, with some even suggesting that he may move to Royal AM, while others stated that he made a U-turn and stayed at Usuthu.
However, on Sunday and Tuesday, both president Sandile Zungu and coach Brandon Truter confirmed that the 35-year-old left the club and won’t be returning to the club. Zungu and Truter also wished Memela all the best in his next chapter.
On Thursday, Richards Bay boss Sifiso Jomo Biyela made a very interesting move to sign Memela on a two-year deal, and FARPost understands that both parties agreed on the deal on the day the club was launching their season, as the chairman was on a business visit in Gauteng.
During the launch, Biyela said they saw a need to beef up with an experienced midfielder. “We realised that we needed to beef up with an experienced player in the squad,” he said.
“We know that he was a top goal-scorer at AmaZulu FC, it is well documented and was voted by the players as the best at Usuthu but unfortunately, he left them. We are so happy to have him on board.”
Memela has been the true embodiment of professionalism and dedication. Everywhere he played, his contribution has been appreciated, from Orlando Pirates to AmaZulu.
And with Natal Rich Boys facing Lamontiville Golden Arrows on Saturday in their opener, it remains unclear whether he will play or not, but his experience will be much needed at his new home.
RELATED STORY: Four clubs that Luvuyo Memela could join this season
