With news that experienced midfielder Hendrick Ekstein might be on his way out of AmaZulu after a four-year stay, the club has pointed out that the former Kaizer Chiefs player is going nowhere.
Siya sources close to the situation first indicated that Ekstein could leave Usuthu, and soon after that the player himself posted a tweet on X typical of when footballers say goodbye to their respective clubs.
"I will be forever grateful," Ekstein wrote with a photograph of himself creating a heart sign with his hands.
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However, AmaZulu have since clarified that Ekstein's social media post was probably misunderstood, that he was effectively saying goodbye to the season, not to the club, and that he was welcoming a winter's season of rest.
The post caused confusion, resulting in fans also wondering that Ekstein had already left Usuthu. Though, Siya sources had questioned Ekstein's future even before the player's post on X.
AmaZulu public relations officer Pro Philani spoke to Soccer Laduma about the player's official status at the club.
"The club has exercised its option on Pule's (Hendrick Ekstein) contract," Philani told the Siya crew.
It now remains to be seen if that stance would indeed stay the same by the time the new season starts, but Usuthu are confident of Ekstein's commitment to the team in future.
Ekstein, 34, signed for Usuthu in 2021 after a stint with Sabail FK in Azerbaijan and has since gone on to feature in 25 matches across all competitions this past season.
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He contributed three goals and two assists during the 2024/25 campaign, playing a supporting role in midfield for a team that showed glimpses of promise in the Betway Premiership.
With AmaZulu now restructuring their squad following a season of transition, the question is whether Ekstein would eventually join goalkeeper Veli Mothwa and attacker Rowan Human among those heading for the exit door.
Heralded for his flair and skill during his early years at Kaizer Chiefs, and then representing Usuthu, Ekstein brought much-needed experience and professionalism to the Durban club over the past few seasons.
