Bradley Ralani surprises South Africa as he is announced as a coach even though he has never formally spoken about retirement from playing the game

Surprise Ralani has left the South African football following public astonished.

The former Cape Town City and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder was announced as coach of ABC Motsepe League side Gaza United.

Born in Northern Cape, this move seemed to be a homecoming one from the former dribbling wizard as his last team – Hungry Lions was also based in his hometown.

The 38-year-old Ralani spent much of career in Europe, in Sweden and Denmark, before returning to South Africa as he turned out for Cape Town City, Sundowns, Cape Town Spurs and Lions.

He won two titles while at Sundowns under Pitso Mosimane and has amassed 130 Betway Premiership matches and scoring 27 goals.

His departure from Spurs was an interesting one as it had nothing to do with his performances but was dismissed because his son signed for Cape Town City.

Spurs management dismissed him citing betrayal as they felt he could have helped them bring his rising star son, Emile Witbooi, to Ikamva.