Prior the start of last season, Maboe was dealt a big blow when he sustained a knee injury that kept him out for almost the entire campaign. Recovery and rehabilitation is never an easy process, but armed with a positive mindset, he was able to make a return earlier than what was initially anticipated and helped the Brazilians to their fifth consecutive league title. After missing out on so much last season, the 27-year-old is itching to get going this term. Soccer Laduma spoke to the former Maritzburg United star about the difficulties he went through and why he did not fear for his place in the team.
Several changes have taken place at Orlando Pirates, and one of these is the appointment of Maela as captain after long-serving Happy Jele left in a shock move. The former Thanda Royal Zulu defender has been hailed for his discipline and work ethic, two traits that stood him in good stead as the Bucs management deliberated on who would be the new skipper. It's a big responsibility. Soccer Laduma caught up with the Bafana Bafana defender to talk about the loss of Jele, getting the captain's armband and how to stop Mamelodi Sundowns' dominance.
Amakhosi have had a busier transfer window than most other PSL teams. Unlike in recent seasons, they've pushed the boat out and paid significant transfer fees for three of the seven additions. Arthur Zwane will need to integrate these new signings gradually as they adjust to life at the country's most-supported club. Will Ashley Du Preez score the goals to fire Chiefs into the title race? Can Yusuf Maart be the deep-lying playmaker that the coach's philosophy demands? In this Soccer Laduma feature, we answer these questions and go through each addition in detail.
The coming season is an important one for Neymar, who, for all of his obvious ability and talent, has endured a difficult time in France in recent seasons despite still being among the highest-paid players in world football. Amid the club's owners seeking to put an end to the apparent "bling-bling" dressing room culture, new Paris Saint-Germain manager Christophe Galtier could be forced to part ways with the Brazil international should an appropriate offer for his services arrive. Neymar, though, took his promising pre-season form into the team's Trophee des Champions clash against Nantes on Sunday night. So, what is the latest regarding his future? Soccer Laduma quizzed a Brazilian football expert.
This week, we hear from former SuperSport United captain Dean Furman as he talks about a range of issues, including his ex-teammate Ronwen Williams' move to Mamelodi Sundowns, Banyana Banyana's recent Wafcon triumph and Benni McCarthy's appointment at Manchester United, who are based in the city where Furman currently resides.
In this week's edition of the popular Siyagobhoza section, there is news on who's earmarked to fill the centre-back void at Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns' U-turn on a previous decision, a Kaizer Chiefs player on the radar of European clubs, and more…