Sports

Thabo Matlaba Opens Up About Orlando Pirates Exit: “Rhulani and Jele Were Close”

Published

5 months ago

May 20, 2025

Chiraag

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After years of speculation, former Orlando Pirates captain Thabo Matlaba has finally shed light on the events that led to his controversial departure from the Soweto giants. In an emotional and candid account, Matlaba revealed that the challenges began shortly after he was handed the captain’s armband – highlighting underlying tensions with then-interim coach Rhulani Mokwena and long-time teammate Happy Jele.

A Captaincy That Sparked Controversy

Matlaba, now 37, joined Orlando Pirates in 2012 from Free State Stars. He quickly became one of the most dependable figures on the team and was eventually named captain following the departures of club stalwarts Siyabonga Sangweni and Oupa Manyisa. However, what should have been a defining career moment instead became the beginning of a difficult chapter.

“The problem started when I became the captain of Orlando Pirates,” Matlaba explained in a recent interview with Soccer Laduma. “Coach Rhulani and Happy Jele were very close, and I believe that dynamic affected how I was treated.”

Despite the friction, Matlaba expressed admiration for Mokwena’s coaching abilities:

“Take nothing away from coach Rhulani – he’s the best coach. I always tell people that.”

Matlaba even offered to relinquish the armband to Jele, a gesture he says was praised by Mokwena as an act of selflessness.

A Legacy Tarnished?

Matlaba’s exit from the club in 2019 was widely believed to be related to contractual disagreements. However, these new revelations suggest the decision may have been rooted more in interpersonal and leadership dynamics than finances alone.

During his seven-year tenure at Orlando Pirates, Matlaba was a consistent and influential figure, much like Jele. His leadership and versatility on the field made him a fan favorite and a respected presence in the locker room.

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Image 1: The Star

Life After Pirates

Since his departure, Matlaba has played for a number of clubs, most recently turning out for Golden Arrows after leaving Royal AM. On May 6, 2025, he faced his former club in a PSL clash at Moses Mabhida Stadium, where Golden Arrows narrowly lost 2-1 to Pirates. Despite the result, Matlaba delivered a composed performance that reminded fans of his enduring quality.

Looking Ahead

As Matlaba nears the twilight of his career, his reflections on his time at Orlando Pirates offer a rare glimpse into the often unspoken dynamics of professional football. His honesty about leadership challenges and club politics will resonate not just with Pirates supporters, but with South African football fans more broadly.

His story serves as a reminder that behind every headline, there’s a personal journey – one filled with triumphs, challenges, and the complexities of team dynamics.