The journey of former Orlando Pirates and Golden Arrows winger Ntsako Makhubela has taken a fresh turn as he looks to reignite a career that once promised so much.
After a period of uncertainty and a quiet exit from the top-flight, the skilful attacking midfielder has dropped down to the Motsepe Foundation Championship to secure regular game time and rediscover the form that once had giants such as Pirates racing for his signature.
The 31-year-old Ntsako ‘Neverdie’ Makhubela has penned a deal with promotion-chasers Kruger United, with the club officially announcing his arrival on Friday. The skilful playmaker joins the National First Division [NFD] side after struggling to find suitors in the top flight following his departure from Betway Premiership outfit Magesi FC at the end of last season.
KRUGER UNITED BOLSTER SQUAD WITH MAKHUBELA AND SIPHO SIBIYA
Having initially made his name at Golden Arrows, Makhubela made 13 appearances for Dikwena Tsa Meetse last term. His career has also seen him complete stints at Moroka Swallows, Durban City FC, and Richards Bay FC.
However, it was at Lamontville Golden Arrows between 2019 and 2021 where the midfielder truly flourished. He was a pivotal figure in the Abafana Bes’thende squad that recorded the club’s best-ever Premiership finish, securing fourth place in the 2020/21 season.
Those eye-catching performances prompted Orlando Pirates—where he spent time as a youth player—to re-sign him in 2021. Despite the hype, the midfielder struggled to replicate his signature “slick moves” at Bucs. He was eventually loaned back to Arrows before officially parting ways with the Soweto giants in 2023.
KRUGER UNITED’S STATEMENT ON MAKHUBELA
“Kruger United FC is delighted to announce the signing of Neverdie Ntsako Makhubela, who joins the club as an attacking midfielder,” the club stated. “The club is confident that his technical ability and understanding of the game will enhance the team’s attacking structure and contribute positively to our ambitions for the season.”
Earlier the same day, Kruger United also confirmed the signing of former Swallows and Upington City FC defender Sipho Sibiya.
“Kruger United FC is pleased to officially announce the signing of centre-back Sipho Sibiya from Upington City FC,” the club confirmed. “Sibiya brings composure, physical presence, and defensive awareness to the squad. His arrival adds depth and competition to the defensive unit, aligning with our long-term vision of building a disciplined and competitive team.”
The club concluded by welcoming both players and wishing them success as they look to push for promotion.
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