Former Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela has revealed the reason he chose to retire at the age of 32 and shared what comes next.
A product of the Buccaneers’ youth structures, the talented left-back amassed 210 appearances for the club, scoring six goals, including a memorable strike against Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby.
Maela is one of the most decorated Pirates players of his era, having secured two Nedbank Cups and four MTN8 titles. He captained the team from 2022 to 2025 under coach Jose Riveiro, leading them to five of those major trophies.
Speaking at his retirement dinner in Johannesburg, the Witbank-born defender explained that a loss of ‘that spark’ for the daily grind drove his decision.
“I think for me, retiring at the time that I retired, it was the right time,” Maela told FARPost. “When I was searching for that spark, I couldn’t find it anymore… I tried my best to help the team, and I felt it was time.”
The man nicknamed ‘Deco’ is embracing the break after a demanding career. “It’s been three months, and I’ve been enjoying my time,” he added. “When people ask me that question, I always reply with the same answer. I’m still enjoying my time. Let me own my time for now, and let’s see how the future unfolds….”
Part of his immediate focus includes finishing his studies, a difficult task amidst the hectic travel schedule of a professional footballer.
MAELA VOWS TO STAY IN THE GAME
While Maela has stepped off the field, he revealed that he is not lost to the sport. Interestingly, he has a clear preference for his next chapter.
“Football is my life. I’ve played football ever since I could remember, and I’m definitely planning on staying [in the game], be it coaching or administration. But if I were to choose right now, I would definitely choose admin rather than being a coach,” said the articulate ex-footballer.
Reflecting on his career, Maela spoke with immense pride about captaining his boyhood club for three seasons.
“It was an honour and a special feeling I will never forget,” he said. “Being the captain of Pirates was amazing, and lifting the five trophies in three years was amazing.”
Maela, whose debut came in October 2017 following a loan spell with Thanda Royal Zulu, also credited his successful, disciplined career to his upbringing.
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