Former Orlando Pirates and Golden Arrows midfielder Ntsako ‘Neverdie’ Makhubela is embracing the setbacks that have shaped his career, declaring that he is now hungrier than ever for success.
Makhubela recently tasted success after securing promotion to the Betway Premiership, courtesy of winning the Motsepe Foundation Championship title at the end of the recent season in May. At 32, the well-travelled midfielder boasts a wealth of experience, having turned out for several clubs, including Arrows, Moroka Swallows, Magesi FC, and Richards Bay FC.
Despite his highly rated talent, Makhubela has faced a challenging path, often missing out on long-term stability at his previous teams.
NTSAKO MAKHUBELA SPEAKS ON HIS RETURN TO THE BETWAY PREMIERSHIP
The experienced midfielder handed his career a lifeline when he secured a move to Mpumalanga-based outfit Kruger United during the January 2026 transfer window. However, Makhubela doesn’t view his latest chapter as a mere rescue mission.
“I wouldn’t call it a revival. One thing I’ve realised in this life is that there will always be highs and lows,” Makhubela told FARPost. “What has happened has happened. I don’t regret anything, and I wouldn’t say I am reviving my career, no. If things were meant to unfold a certain way, they were always going to happen.
‘If a setback happened to me, why should it have happened to someone else instead? I am just glad to have gone through it. I am back now, feeling fresh, and still determined to give my absolute best.”
His time in the second tier has provided the veteran midfielder with a fresh perspective on the game and life.
“Being at Kruger United has taught me to always remain humble, support my teammates, and trust the process,” Makhubela explained. “Above all, it’s about putting God first, because without Him, we are nothing. You have to pray and trust in Him. With God, anything is possible.”
Looking ahead to life back in South Africa’s elite league, Makhubela warns that his burning ambition is what will set him apart.
“If there is one thing you need to know about me, it’s my hunger. I always say that talent alone is not enough. In this league, you have to grind, and we have been working hard to adjust to the level.”
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