Maluleka reacts to Mphahlele and Buchanan leaving AmaZulu

George Maluleka described the sudden exit of two senior players at AmaZulu FC as a huge knock. 

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AmaZulu released Keagan Buchanan and Ramahlwe Mphahlele two months before the end of the season for reasons that are yet to be made official. 

It has however emerged that it was to do with their attitude towards coach Romain Folz which management found unworkable. 

Their exit was confirmed by Folz earlier this week, saying it was a decision taken for the good of the club.

“We took the decision to let them go elsewhere because I believe that it’s best for the team and best for the club,” Folz said.

“I always do what’s best for the team, that’s my only priority. We have a clear vision on where we want to go. 

“It’s a process, things don’t just happen so you have to make decisions. Every decision that we take is for the benefit of the team and looking to improve what we have,” added Folz.

Asked about this latest development in the team, Maluleka said it was a matter that management were better suited to answer.

Maluleka weights in on the matter

“It makes a big difference, obviously we are losing players, colleagues but the management would answer that much better,” Maluleka told the journalists this week.

“For us, obviously, it’s a huge knock because these are the people that we shared a change room with,” added the former Mamelodi Sundowns man.

ALSO READ: Folz confirms Buchanan, Mphahlele exit from AmaZulu

Maluleka admitted that while it was difficult to understand the situation, they have to quickly get over it and move on.

“We just have to brush it off and try to make sure that we carry on with the last seven games,” Maluleka added. 

Player power pulling AmaZulu back

Phakaaathi reported earlier this week that the duo were said to be leaders of a cabal that was working against the coach. 

It has been hinted that the player power issues at the Durban side started during Benni McCarthy’s time. 

AmaZulu have failed to find rhythm since the start of the season and Brandon Truter was fired and Folz hired in his place. 

Under Folz, Usuthu are struggling to get results besides having one of the more experienced squads in the league. 

They are currently 10th on the log with 28 points after 23 games. AmaZulu are closer to the relegation zone than the top four places they had set out for this season.

Folz’ side host fellow strugglers Swallows FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium at 8pm on Saturday. 

Maluleka said they have a team capable of collecting full points against Swallows and move up the standings.