The Chilli Boys have made wholesale changes to their playing roster for 2018/19, bringing in experienced duo Daine Klate and Thabo Nthethe and selling Abel Mabaso and Linda Mntambo to Orlando Pirates among other adjustments.
Malesela is also back in the hotseat after initially being fired by club owner Siviwe Mpengesi last term.
'Dance' was pleased with his men's efforts in the Maize Cup on Saturday despite losing 3-1 to Free State Stars on penalties following a goalless affair at James Motlatsi Stadium in Orkney.
"We did pretty well, actually beyond what I expected. There are a lot of aspects of the game that we have not started training," Malesela said.
"The signs are very good and it is pleasing to see a new team like this, that it can perform like it did. I was trying out some new players for different positions and I wanted to see how they will do, and they surprised me.
"What also pleases me is I have a new back four that was very solid for the entire match. Unlike us, I think they didn't have too many chances. We had too many chances. It's a very pleasing start."
Malesela is looking to forge a distinctive style of play for the Port Elizabeth-based outfit.
"I like identity. When you knock at my door I need to know who you are so that I can open for you. It is the same with football. When we play here, you need to see that this is Dan Malesela's team.
"You should not even worry about it. I don't want people to just come in to the match and don't figure out what was happening. Because sometimes you go into the match and you ask yourself what was happening but the score is 3-0.
"I'm hoping this team becomes consistent and we don't lose players like we usually do."