Magesi assessing a former Orlando Pirates defender
Motsepe Foundation Championship side Magesi FC are assessing a former Orlando Pirates defender as they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
As FARPost reported this week, the club seems to be on a mission to assemble a strong squad to compete in the 2023/24 campaign.
Magesi finished 12th in the second-tier league of the PSL last season. Their coach Clinton Larsen joined halfway through the season, but he is in charge of the pre-season this time.
This publication spotted ex-Pirates man Diamond Thopola during a Magesi pre-season friendly match on Saturday in Polokwane The 33-year-old spent last season at All Stars, who have now been bought by Black Leopards.
The right-back has been more of a journeyman in recent seasons. Since his departure from Pirates in 2020, Thopola has featured for Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila, Marumo Gallants and All Stars.
EX-ORLANDO PIRATES DEFENDER DIAMOND THOPOLA ASSESSED
Thopola was part of the Marumo Gallants team [then TTM] that won the 2020 Nedbank Cup but parted ways with the club after. He also worked together at Chippa United in 2019 so a move to Magesi would not come as a surprise.
MANUEL KAMBALA TO STAY AT MAGESI FC?
As reported by FARPost, the club is trying to hold on to experienced player Manuel Kambala. The Mozambique international has been strongly linked with a move to neighbours Polokwane City who recently gained promotion to the DStv Premiership.
But indications are that Kambala will likely spend another season at the club unless something drastic happens. The 31-year-old was a key figure under Larsen playing as both a Centre back as well as his usual defensive midfield position.
The club is reportedly keen on keeping the core of the squad to maintain consistency while there would be a few exits.
They have also boosted their management setup with the appointment of well-traveled administrator Peter Koutroulis. Koutroulis will take up the role of a Team manager.
RELATED STORY: Ex-Sundowns administrator Peter Koutroulis joins Motsepe Foundation side