Former Orlando Pirates assistant coach Benson Mhlongo believes that outgoing captain Innocent Maela should be offered a position within the club to recognise his contributions over the years.
Maela, who has won four MTN8 Cup trophies with the Sea Robbers, played his final game for the Soweto giants last night as he retires from professional football.
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This season, the 32-year-old from Emalahleni in Mpumalanga province participated in 12 matches for Pirates.
Mhlongo, who served as an assistant coach at Pirates when Maela returned from his loan stint at Thanda Royal Zulu, shared his thoughts with KickOff.
"Maela is an example to many of us in terms of patience, hard work, and focus in his football career," Mhlongo stated.
"He came to Pirates as a young boy, was loaned out to NFD teams, but persevered and achieved a lot. He returned older, more mature, and humbled, leading the team exceptionally well.
"His journey teaches us that while we all aspire to succeed in football on our first attempt, it’s important to run your own race.
"Avoid getting involved in football politics; focus on improving yourself. Be a good person, and God will reward you.
"As a leader, he brought peace and unity to everyone in the Pirates team. He respected me as a coach, as well as coach Rulani Mokwena, his teammates, and even the kit manager.
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"I wish he could hold seminars to teach young players the importance of humility.
"Retirement is a personal decision, but I hope to see him offered a role at Pirates. He deserves to be the next one after Okpara Williams to take up a job at the club.
"I believe he will be given a position because he embodies patience."
