Jele finally lands new home at Royal AM after leaving Pirates

Royal AM have announced the signing of former Orlando Pirates captain Happy Jele.

Jele joins Royal AM with the defender having left Pirates after the 2021/22 season, when his contract expired. He has now gone months without playing competitive football.

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When Jele left Pirates it was the only club he had played for in his professional career. He made over 400 appearances in the Buccaneers’ famous colours and scored 18 goals, winning eight trophies .

Prior to leaving Pirates, he was offered a non-playing role by the Bucs management. However, the defender declined the offer as he was keen on continuing to play top flight football. His experience will be vital for Royal, with the club stating that they are excited to have him.

“We are excited to have you around. Welcome on board,” said the club via Twitter.

The 36-years old Jele joins Royal after spending 16-years with the Buccaneers. The Middelbug born defender is certainly excited with his new venture.

At Royal, Jele will be reunited with another former Bucs defender Thabo Matlaba, who has been with Thwihli Thwahla since last January after making the switch from Swallows FC. Matlaba left the Buccaneers back in 2019 and went on to join Black Leopards before Swallows.

Both Jele and Matlaba played for a very long time together at Bucs and claimed a number of trophies. They will be looking to form a strong partnership for the club from KZN, which also has the experienced Ricardo Nascimento on their books.

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Royal have not been consistent this season and they are sitting in 12th spot on the league table with 21 points after 18 games. They have the DStv Premiership KZN derby against Golden Arrows on Saturday, and they will be aiming to get a win after losing 2-0 to Kaizer Chiefs in their last game.