Betway Premiership Latest Soccer News

Neo Maema reveals the Soweto club he vowed never to join

Neo Maema in action for Mamelodi Sundowns in the DStv Premiership

Mamelodi Sundowns star Neo Maema has revealed the Soweto club he swore he would never play for during his football career.

In the DStv Premiership, there are three clubs that are based in Soweto. These are, namely, Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Moroka Swallows.

Maema introduced himself in the PSL when he was playing for Bloemfontein Celtic. This was in the 2017/18 campaign when he made his breakthrough at the age of 22.

For his great and consistent performances on the field of play, the talented midfielder attracted interest from the Tshwane giants, Sundowns. The 28-year-old joined Masandawna ahead of the 2021/22 season.

Since his arrival at Chloorkop, Maema has been a key player in the midfield, playing in different positions. His main role is playing as an attacking midfielder. But heโ€™s versatile, as he can be deployed in the central midfield and on the left wing, depending on the formation.

NEO MAEMA HAVE NEVER PICTURED HIMSELF PLAYING FOR ORLANDO PIRATES

Orlando Pirates players celebrate a goal in the DStv Premiership
Orlando Pirates players celebrate a goal in the DStv Premiership

Maema says from a young age when he was dreaming of playing professional football, he didnโ€™t want to play for the Orlando Pirates.

โ€œThe one team I didnโ€™t want to go to was [Orlando] Pirates. That was from a young age. I donโ€™t know whether itโ€™s the spirit or what, but it doesnโ€™t feel okay with me,โ€ Maema told PitchPodcast.

โ€œThatโ€™s one team that, even if I did see an opportunity to play for a big team, it was a team that I didnโ€™t want to play for. I still have the same feeling to this day, that thing doesnโ€™t go away.

“Now, Iโ€™m fully invested in Mamelodi Sundowns. I donโ€™t think of other teams. The tricky part, but not tricky, is that most of my family are Pirates fans.โ€

RELATED STORY: PSL side that almost signed Maema before Sundowns move