In a heartfelt and revealing interview with Soccer Laduma in this week’s Edition 1424, former Orlando Pirates captain Thabo Matlaba has spoken candidly about the real reason behind his departure from the Soweto giants in 2019.
Although the official version at the time of his exit was centred around a contract negotiation impasse, Matlaba has now gone deeper – sharing the personal and emotional side of what led to his decision to part ways with the Buccaneers after seven loyal years.
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“To be honest, take nothing away from coach Rulani, what a coach! He’s the best coach. I always tell people that coach Rulani Mokwena is the best,” Matlaba tells the Siya crew.
“The problem started when I became the captain of Orlando Pirates… because coach Rulani and Happy Jele were close.”
According to the versatile defender, the tension stemmed not from a lack of professionalism or commitment, but rather from a clash of leadership dynamics and trust.
The appointment of Matlaba as captain – initiated from the high office according to Matlaba, following the retirement of Siyabonga Sangweni and the departure of Oupa Manyisa – unexpectedly created friction in the changing room.
Matlaba, widely respected for his leadership qualities and humility, says he even offered to return the captain’s armband to Happy Jele in a bid to restore harmony within the squad.
“I went to Happy Jele and offered him captaincy again… I said, ‘Happy, I’m giving you this armband from the bottom of my heart…’ I remember coach Rulani standing up after hearing me saying that and praising me for being selfless.”
Despite what seems to have been the internal tensions at the time, Matlaba’s professionalism never wavered. In fact, that same character was reflected in Pirates’ official statement when confirming his exit in June 2019.
The club acknowledged how, after meeting with Dr Irvin Khoza to discuss his future, Matlaba respectfully declined a salary reduction due to personal circumstances and instead requested a clearance to pursue opportunities elsewhere.
“Dr Khoza explained that the Club is not in a position to pay high salaries to players who are not playing regularly… Thabo confirmed he is not able to take a reduction and requested the Club to issue him with a clearance,” the club noted at the time.
Pirates parted ways with Matlaba on good terms, describing him as a “future Hall of Famer” and highlighting the legacy he built since joining from Free State Stars in 2012.
Over the years, Matlaba helped the club win multiple trophies, played in continental finals, and emerged as one of the most dependable figures in the squad – on and off the pitch.
“There are no words to fully express the gratitude towards Thabo’s contribution at the Club… even though he has featured less on the field in recent seasons, he remained a positive and influential member of the squad.”
Now, nearly six years after his departure, Matlaba’s honest reflections bring clarity and context to one of the most discussed exits in South African football.
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His story is a testament to leadership, maturity, and putting the team above oneself – even in the face of personal disappointment.
For the full, exclusive interview where Matlaba opens up further on his Pirates journey, personal growth, and what lies ahead, grab this week’s Soccer Laduma, Edition 1424.
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