Lerumo Lions boss Sibongile Marokana has opened up on the decision to sign former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Sabelo Radebe in the second round of the Motsepe Foundation Championship season.
The 25-year-old, affectionately known as ‘Bibo’, joined the North West outfit in December 2025 as a free agent. Radebe had been clubless since July 2025 following the expiry of his contract with the Soweto giants, Chiefs.
His departure from Naturena followed a difficult loan spell at Richards Bay FC, which was cut short in April 2025 after the player managed to make only three appearances for the Natal Rich Boyz.
During his stint with Amakhosi’s first team, he made over 17 appearances across all competitions, according to Transfermarkt.
‘HE STILL HAS ROOM TO IMPROVE HIMSELF’: SIBONGILE MAROKANA
Speaking to FARPost, Lerumo chairlady, Marokana, explained that the decision to bring in ‘Bibo’ was rooted in the club’s philosophy of giving players a second chance and rebuild themselves.
“You know, he’s an experienced player, very good, and he’s still young as well. I keep saying he still has room to improve,” Marokana told this publication.
“Sometimes, football can be cruel. You find someone who is broken and has lost their confidence; they need to come into a home that will be able to rebuild them. Not all teams can nurture, rebuild, and help players find themselves again.”
Marokana believes Radebe’s rollercoaster journey—from being a rising star at Chiefs to facing unemployment—makes him an invaluable asset for the younger players in the squad.
“I think we met him at the right time. I like people who have experienced the bitter side of the football industry. Those people can tell a real story and teach the up-and-coming players how to conduct and align themselves,” she added.
“It’s important to have someone who has experienced both the bitter and sweet sides. I’ve always been skeptical about experienced players because sometimes they can be bullies or feel they are above the team. But if you genuinely want someone who wants to fix their life and play football, why not give them a second chance?”
SIBONGILE MAROKANA ON SABELO RADEBE’S IMPACT AT LERUMO LIONS
Since arriving in the North West, Radebe has integrated seamlessly into the Lerumo’s setup, according to the club’s chairlady.
“I really feel that ‘Bibo’ is doing extremely well. He doesn’t talk too much, but when he does, you want to listen because he makes sense. I like how he fits in and grooms the younger players. So far, everything is going well,” Marokana concluded.
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