At 39, Arubi reveals the secret behind his longevity in the PSL
At 39, veteran Marumo Gallants goalkeeper Washington Arubi has revealed the secret behind his longevity in the Betway Premiership.
In exactly six months, Arubi turns 40 to become one of the oldest goalkeepers in the Betway Premiership. Mamelodi Sundowns’ Denis Onyango who turns 40 in May is the oldest.
Unlike Onyango, Arubi is commanding a first team jersey for both country, Zimbabwe and club. For Zimbabwe, he has been preferred ahead of the in-form Elvis Chipezeze of Magesi FC.
In addition, he has been the trusted hands for Gallants, where he has made 17 league appearances so far. Despite his age, Arubi is nowhere near hanging up his boots as he eyes reaching the 2025 AFCON edition to be staged in Morocco.
He continues to prove his worth and was praised for a sterling performance after keeping Nigeria at bay in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
WHAT THE VETERAN MARUMO GALLANTS GOALKEEPER SAID
In an interview with FARPost, the Zimbabwean international said maintaining self-discipline has helped him last the distance. Furthermore, Arubi believes being a stickler for rules at all levels has helped him go beyond expectations, as he nears the age of 40.
“First of all, I want to thank you for the recognition of being one of the oldest goalkeepers in PSL. To be honest with you, I always try to keep my discipline on point every day and push myself every day to do better,” Arubi told FARPost.
“That means, I always give myself extra training sessions, and I do make sure that I train twice a day, considering our schedule. And at this age, it is also important to control what I eat and drink and to get more rest.
“It’s all about believing and putting in the work, no matter what, you know how our industry is. My wish is to stay fit and pray every day not to experience long injuries.
“Of course, injuries are part of the game, but we keep on going and always thank God, but being disciplined on and off the field has really helped me.”
Arubi came to South Africa in 2012 when he was signed by the University of Pretoria from Harare giants, Dynamos FC.
He later played for Black Aces, Stellenbosch FC, SuperSport United, Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila FC. Before joining Gallants at the start of the season, he was at SuperSport United.
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