Why Sithebe chose Richards Bay FC over two other Betway Premiership clubs
Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Siyethemba Sithebe has explained why he chose to sign with Richards Bay FC over two other Betway Premiership clubs.
Sithebe joined Richards Bay on a free transfer in the off-season after parting ways with Amakhosi. Chiefs opted against renewing Sithebe’s contract as a part of restructure following a disappointing 2023/24 season.
The midfielder was with Chiefs for two seasons after signing from AmaZulu FC in July 2022. His stay with Chiefs was not fruitful after failing to live up to expectations in 39 matches he played across all competitions.
In the off-season, Sithebe left the Glamour Boys alongside Keagan Dolly, Sifiso Hlanti, Njabulo Ngcobo and Efmamjjasond Gonzalez. Meanwhile, Sabelo Radebe and Donay Jansen joined Richards Bay FC and SuperSport United on loan deals.
MAGESI FC AND SEKHUKHUNE UNITED EXPRESSED INTEREST IN SIGNING SITHEBE
Sithebe was seemingly not short of suitors after his exit from Chiefs. The 31-year-old revealed that the new Betway Premiership side Magesi FC and Sekhukhune United were also interested in his services.
The attacking midfielder says he chose the Natal Rich Boys ahead of Magesi and Sekhukhune because Bay is closer to his home.
“When I signed for Richards Bay, I had options but I signed there because I saw that they have young boys and I need to help them to achieve something,” Sithebe told FARPost.
“Last season the team was fighting relegation, so we need to collect more points early to avoid the same situation.
“From my side before joining Richards Bay, I can say there were negotiations with other teams and it was my agent who was negotiating with those teams.
“So we spoke to Sekhukhune and Magesi that just came in [the SA’s top-flight]. That’s why I say it was the agent who was negotiating and I get feedback from there.
“But I can say that I came to Richards Bay because they are close to home and I thought it will be easy for me to adapt.”
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