Mahlonoko leaves La Masia: Why Daine Klate has released him
Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Augustine Mahlonoko has parted ways with Motsepe Foundation Championship side La Masia, who are under the tutelage of Daine Klate.
FARPost can confirm that the two parties mutually agreed to part ways this week. The Pirates academy graduate has been with La Masia since last July and was one of Klate’s experienced players.
However, this publication can confirm that he has since cut ties with the club, exactly 18 months after he joined them. His three starts this season were against Hungry Lions, Marumo Gallants and Venda Football Club.
In the last three games, he has not even been on the bench, missing games against Milford FC, Baroka FC [Nedbank Cup] and Maritzburg United. The last time he featured for the team was on 6 October against Hungry Lions FC.
HERE’S WHY DAINE KLATE HAS RELEASED AUGUSTINE MAHLONOKO
According to sources close to the player, the 22-year-old requested to be released as he felt he was not getting enough game time. On the other hand, the club’s coaching staff were unhappy with his commitment to the club.
“It was an easy decision from both ends,” the source explained to FARPost. “He asked to be released by the club. From the club’s end, there were issues to do with his commitment. Sometimes, he skipped training, and the coaching staff did not know where he was.
“It affects the team’s preparations when one player decides not to attend training without communicating. In the end, that became an issue. So when he requested to be released, it was an easy decision.”
The development means Mahlonoko, who debuted for Pirates at 17 in 2018, is now free to join another club. It is unclear where Mahlonoko will move to next. However, he has been linked with DStv Premiership side Chippa United.
The Chilli Boys are reportedly eager to bring Mahlonoko on board following his exit from the Motsepe Foundation Championship side.
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