While they continue to struggle in the DStv Premiership, Richards Bay FC have shockingly parted ways with their captain outside the transfer window.
The KZN-based side had a rocky start to the 2023/24 campaign under the guidance of their head coach Kaitano Tembo.
They are flirting with relegation as they languish 14th on the league table after accumulating only six points.
The Natal Rich Boys have only won one game in the league, drawing three while they lost six times in the 10 games they have played.
In their recent league encounter, they lost 3-1 to Cape Town City at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday.
While they are still dealing with early-season struggles, FARPost understands Richards Bay have parted ways with their captain Katleho Maphathe.
Maphathe was crucial for Bay when they got promoted to the SA’s top-flight in the previous season.
The 30-year-old left-back made 28 league appearances during their maiden season in the top-tier.
Maphathe fell out of favour at Bay as he has only featured in four games this season and was also stripped of his captain’s armband.
KATLEHO MAPHATHE RELEASED BY RICHARDS BAY WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT
“Katleho Maphathe has left Richards Bay with immediate effect and he’s now a free agent,” a reliable source told this publication.
“I think you might have noticed that he hasn’t been playing regularly at the club. He was also stripped of the captain’s armband.
“So it became clear that the team didn’t need him anymore despite being their key player last season.”
The Free State-born defender had a contract that would still run until 2025 after signing a three-year contract extension last season.
It remains to be seen which club will pounce on the talented defender during the 2024 January transfer window.
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