New goals, new challenges! What awaits Innocent Maela at Orlando Pirates

The former team captain is on the verge of taking up a managerial role at the club.

Details: Despite Maela's contract with the Pirates having come to an end, the club has yet to make any official announcement regarding the departure of the legendary left-back, suggesting that Maela will stay within the club structure, though not as a player.

Maela joined Orlando Pirates back in 2017 from Richards Bay and over the years has made 208 appearances for the Buccaneers, becoming a stalwart of the squad and a fan favorite.

Now, Innocent faces a new challenge as it appears the club has decided to appoint him to a position within its ranks. This is evidenced by Maela’s recent involvement in an orientation tour organized for the team’s newcomers, where he acted as a club representative.

It’s also worth noting the mention of Maela in the welcoming address to the new players, further highlighting his influence within the team:

“...Club legends, including Tebogo Moloi, Edward Motale, and former captains Lucky Lekgwathi, Happy Jele, and Innocent Maela, officially welcomed the new players into the Pirates family,” the statement read, placing Maela among revered names.

The fact that Maela was chosen to represent the club at this symbolic event speaks volumes about his growing influence off the pitch. His experience and deep understanding of the Pirates’ culture make Maela an excellent leader and a key figure in the club’s future development.

Reminder: New Orlando Pirates players get acquainted with the club’s history