Marumo Gallants chairman Abram Sello believes that although their 10 new signings are not high-profile names, they are young and eager to achieve success.
The Bloemfontein-based club confirmed the arrival of these new players, and coach Lafitte Alexandre was introduced to the media for the first time.
After parting ways with experienced players including Dino Ndlovu, Siyabulela Shai, Kamohelo Mahlatsi, Gabadinho Mhango, Vusi Sibiya, and Daniel Akpeyi, the club unveiled their new signings at an event held in Sandton, Johannesburg, on Monday.
Headlining Gallants’ new arrivals was former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Darrel Matsheke, who was unveiled alongside Teboho Motloung, Bongolwethu Siyase, Abram Tjahikika, and Simo Luthuli. He list also includes Shaun Morgan, Jaisen Clifford, Kamohelo Sithole, Karabo Khoza, and Bheki Mabuza.
Tjahikika, an attacking midfielder from Namibia, joins Bahlabane Ba Ntwa on the back of a stellar season for African Stars. He finished as the top goal scorer with 14 goals and is expected to contribute goals in the upcoming season.
Clifford returns to South Africa after a lengthy spell overseas. The mercurial winger was linked with Orlando Pirates after his return from Bulgaria.
MARUMO GALLANTS CHAIRMAN CONFIDENT IN NEW SIGNINGS
Gallants’ chairman Abram Sello emphasised the team’s focus on recruiting younger, hungry talent. “We are very much impressed that they will do well, they are young,” Sello said.
“Firstly, we want young players who are still hungry for football, and we want to promote them to the level where God puts them. We commit to what we can [financially], where we can’t, we reserve our rights.”
Meanwhile, the club’s new coach, Alexandre, who is 28, is confident they will continue from where they left off last season. Gallants, who appeared headed for relegation during Dan Malesela’s rein, turned things around late in the season. They finished 10th, narrowly missing out on a top-eight finish.
“I know the championship [Betway Premiership]. For me, it’s the best championship in Africa. You have fantastic teams – Orlando Pirates, Chiefs, and Mamelodi Sundowns, who played in the FIFA Club World Cup. For me, it’s a championship with very good organisation. I’m very happy to be here.”
He added that after watching the final games of the season, “it’s important to continue with the performance of the last 10 games.”
“I want the same objective and the same focus, and I want to improve the mentality. I want to build a fantastic winning mentality,” the former Stade d’Abidjan mentor said.
RELATED STORY: Jaisen Clifford signs with Marumo Gallants