Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly attacker Phakamani Mahlambi’s move to Motsepe Foundation Championship side Lerumo Lions FC has hit a snag, FARPost can reveal.
The 28-year-old has been a free agent since July 2022 following his departure from Masandawana. In an attempt to revive his career, Mahlambi began training with TS Galaxy in November 2025.
However, after spending about three months under assessment with the Rockets, the talented forward failed to secure a deal. The club’s technical team concluded that he did not meet the physical and conditioning standards required for the Betway Premiership.
Galaxy mentor Adnan Beganovic previously emphasised that while Mahlambi’s technical quality remains evident, his fitness was not aligned with the team’s high-intensity style.
“After analysing his data and performance, we decided he couldn’t reach the level we needed. We don’t have time to wait a year for a player who might help us. He lost a lot in the last couple of years trying to find himself. He has probably struggled a lot, and it’s difficult to bring him back to the top,” said Beganovic.
“It’s better for him to join a second or third-division club. Only consistent game time can rebuild his confidence and get him back to the PSL level.”
Following the Galaxy setback, this publication reported that Mahlambi started training with the North West-based side, Lerumo, on 25 February 2026, as the club sought to bolster its attacking options for the second round of the season.
WHAT HAPPENED WITH PHAKAMANI MAHLAMBI’S POTENTIAL MOVE TO LERUMO LIONS
However, FARPost can confirm that the move has failed to materialise. Lerumo chairlady Sibongile Marokana clarified the situation in an exclusive interview with this publication.
“Phakamani, I only saw him once, to be quite honest. I saw him when we were playing a friendly match against Orlando Pirates. I was told he was coming, and we should have a look at him [assess him],” Lerumo boss told FARPost.
“Since that day, I have never seen him again. So, it never reached a point where I signed anything [approving his signing]. What they do is that the club’s technical team will assess the player, and I will be called for a final assessment before anything can be concluded, because it still requires my signature and go-ahead.
“So, we never got to that level. I’m not sure what really went on there with him, to be quite honest. He is no longer with the team at this moment.”
The talented player has also had stints with teams such as Bidvest Wits, AmaZulu FC, and Chippa United.
Meanwhile, Lerumo—competing in their debut season in the South African second tier after acquiring the status of Pretoria Callies—currently sit 10th in the Motsepe Foundation Championship standings with 27 points after 22 matches.
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