Richards Bay’s newly signed Botswana international Benson Kitso Mangolo may find himself in trouble after signing another contract with Marumo Gallants last month. Mangolo was unveiled alongside 10 other new signings by the Natal Rich Boyz.
FARPost previously reported that the 26-year-old penned a three-year deal with Bahlabane Ba Ntwa after his outstanding performances last season for Mochudi Centre Chiefs. The Zebras’ left-back gained recognition during his time with Jwaneng Galaxy in the CAF Champions League.
It appears Mangolo indeed put a pen to paper, signing a deal with Gallants. However, upon discovering that Richards Bay had presented a financially more attractive offer, he swiftly changed his mind, subsequently signing another contract with Richards Bay.
“We signed him, but I think it seems there are issues with him,” confirmed Gallants chairman, Abram Sello, when asked by FARPost. “Until we sort it out, we won’t come in front of the media and say this is the situation. We will let you know where we land. I respect everyone – player, agent, club – until it sorts itself out, we’re not going to comment much about that. You will see the results.”
According to FIFA statutes, a footballer who signs two contracts with different clubs without a valid reason, such as a loan agreement, will face disciplinary action. FIFA regulations stipulate that both the player and the club inducing the breach of contract are subject to sanctions.
THE REST OF RICHARDS BAY FC NEW SIGNINGS
The Natal Rich Boyz also confirmed 10 other new signings, including former Orlando Pirates striker Gabadinho Mhango, who joined on a free transfer after departing Marumo Gallants.
The Malawian forward was brought in as a direct replacement for Yanela Mbuthuma, who was transferred to Orlando Pirates.
Former Golden Arrows defender Sandile Zuke was also among the new additions, arriving on a free transfer after leaving Golden Arrows towards the end of the previous campaign.
Among the fresh faces was the experienced midfielder Lindokuhle Mtshali, who joined the KwaZulu-Natal side after departing from Sekhukhune United at the end of the previous season.
Others include Halalisani Vilakazi, Ntokozo Nzama, Sboniso Madonsela, Philani Khumalo, Lundi Mahala, Mbulelo Nombengula, and Olwethu Mbambo.
Richards Bay secured the signing of Vilakazi from newly-promoted Betway Premiership side Orbit College even before Orbit College participated in the PSL Promotion/Relegation Playoffs. Meanwhile, Mahala joined as a free agent after he parted ways with the Motsepe Foundation Championship Highbury FC.
Mahala impressed at the Khabba Cup tournament in Umlazi in June. Representing Eastern Cape XI, he played a pivotal role in their triumph, as they ultimately defeated FC Lagos in the final to win the tournament.
His exceptional contributions were recognised with two accolades: he was named both the Player of the Tournament and the Top Goal Scorer.
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