South African footballer Khanyisa Mayo has spoken warmly about his former Bafana Bafana teammate Innocent Maela, amid the outgoing Orlando Pirates captain's potential retirement.
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Former Cape Town City and now with CR Belouizdad striker Khanyisa Mayo has paid tribute to outgoing Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela.
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Maela bid an emotional farewell to the Buccaneers fans following the club’s final match of the season, a 1-1 draw against Magesi at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday.
While it's not yet confirmed whether the Witbank-born defender is officially retiring, reports suggest that the 32-year-old is likely to take up a non-playing role within the club.
After Maela’s heartfelt wave to the supporters, possibly signaling the end of his professional playing career, Mayo, who occasionally shared the national team pitch with the veteran left-back, penned a tribute to his former teammate.
"My first senior call up (for Bafana Bafana), you guided me through out even outside of football," Mayo wrote on Instagram..
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"You gave me advices, I will always remember your words skipper. A true brother and true professional.
"You will be missed, thanks for your efforts in this journey of football. I wish you all the best in life.
