‘Since I’ve been given the duty as a captain that is my fourth medal which is unbelievable,’ he stated.
Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela appears to be like again on his time as membership captain with pleasure, having lifted 4 trophies prior to now two seasons. The 31-year-old was given the armband after long-serving defender Happy Jele left the membership two years in the past.
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Fast-forward to 2024 and Maela has led the membership to back-to-back MTN8 titles as properly because the Nedbank Cup under Spanish coach José Riveiro. Although the left-back bears the duty of main the Buccaneers, he additionally credit the management group throughout the group for his or her cup success.
“Since I’ve been given the responsibility as a captain this is my fourth medal, which is unbelievable. Personally, from a guy that grew up in the academy who joined the team as a youngster and to be in this position and lift four trophies in my first two years as the captain means a lot to me and it’s special,” he stated.
“I at all times say that it’s for individuals and all of the gamers that I performed with on the academy that didn’t have the chance to progress of their careers. I’m certain they’re proud of me and that is for them. To all these kids on the market, maintain believing and by no means hand over. It doesn’t actually matter how lengthy it takes however be constant and respect the sport.
“It’s a great honour and privilege to lead this club. It’s an amazing feeling and very special. I can only thank the management and players for selecting me. God chooses his leaders and I thank him for blessing me with the understanding, wisdom and the courage to lead because it’s not an easy task. I need to give credit to all the other leaders we have within the team.”
More success
Last season culminated in Pirates lifting the Nedbank Cup and Maela is hoping for a powerful begin to the 2024/2025 marketing campaign, because the Soweto giants intention for extra success by additionally difficult Mamelodi Sundowns for the DStv Premiership title.
“It’s (success) about the team and new players who are tasting success for the first time, because it’s important for us going forward,” he added.
“Having the mindset of understanding the best way to go all the best way, it offers you confidence and it additionally offers you confidence while you go into negotiations and wish to signal gamers to enhance the squad as a result of the group has simply tasted success.
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“Who doesn’t want to be here and represent this brand? We as players that are here, we’re looking forward to an off season that is well deserved. We’re also looking forward to pre-season when we come back and we just need to start next season on a high note because of this success.”
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