Departed Sundowns forward lands new club

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A former Mamelodi Sundowns forward has landed a new club after departing Chloorkop a week ago.

Sundowns has seen a period of significant change recently. Following the departures of four key players – Thabiso Kutumela, Gaston Sirino, Brian Onyango, and Bongani Zungu – head coach Rulani Mokwena also made a surprise exit.

While they have announced the return of Steve Komphela as a Senior Coach, the club has yet to make a new signing despite being linked with a few players.

Kutumela has become the first of the aforementioned club’s exits to secure a new club after signing for Richards Bay. 

Afrik-Foot understands he penned a deal with the Natal Rich Boyz on Friday after offering his services to the club.

DEPARTED SUNDOWNS FORWARD SECURE A NEW HOME

According to FARPost, Kutumela had an offer at AmaZulu. However, the move to Usuthu fell through and Richards Bay moved swiftly to acquire his services.

They are hoping to leverage his experience, aiming to enhance their striking department to come back stronger next season following the successful retention of their DStv Premiership status through the PSL promotional/relegation playoffs.

Kutumela is also on a mission to rediscover his top form. Despite seeing regular playing time at Cape Town City last season, he couldn't recapture his peak, and his minutes at Sundowns were limited.

The Natal Rich Boyz become his second club in KZN in his career having also turned out for Maritzburg United between 2019 and 2021.

RICHARDS BAY PLAYER MOVEMENTS SO FAR

Meanwhile, the club based in the Northern part of KZN, has also signed Fezile Gcaba and Sbani Khumalo from Mkhumbane Classic. 

They further strengthened their midfield by swooping in for Siyethemba Sithebe after his departure from Kaizer Chiefs. Notably, Sithebe returns to his home province, having previously played for KZN-based AmaZulu FC before his move to Chiefs in 2022.

Richards Bay also signed Keegan Allan and Tlakusani Mthethwa on free transfers. Allan left SuperSport following the end of his contract while Mthethwa departed Moroka Swallows after the club’s status sale to Marumo Gallants.

In addition, the Jomo Biyela-owned side extended the contracts of goalkeeper Salim Magoola and defender Simphiwe Mcineka with five years each.

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Nkosiyabuya Sithole

Nkosiyabuya Sithole, a young and rising sports journalist based in Durban, South Africa, harbors a deep passion for football. Nevertheless, he aspires to become a well-rounded journalist, adept in various areas of the field.

Nkosi's career began in 2020, working as a home-based writer during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has since written for various websites, including Briefly News, FiND-iT News, and The South African. Attending live sporting events is a particular pleasure for him, as they provide opportunities for interaction with sports personalities.

Outside of the office, he's a God-fearing and affable young man.