PSL side snap up former Pirates star Makhubela

In a move aimed at injecting veteran flair into their promotion charge, PSL side Kruger United have officially confirmed the signing of former Orlando Pirates and Golden Arrows attacker Ntsako “Neverdie” Makhubela.

The 31-year-old makes the move to the Motsepe Foundation Championship following a stint with Magesi FC. For Makhubela, the switch to the National First Division (NFD) represents a strategic “reset” as he looks to reclaim the scintillating form that once made him one of the most sought-after creative talents in the country.

Rebuilding the ex-Pirates star’s Spark

Makhubela’s career reached its zenith during his first spell at Golden Arrows (2019–2021). He was the engine room of the Abafana Bes’thende side that secured a historic fourth-place finish in the 2020/21 season. That success earned him a high-profile return to his boyhood club, Orlando Pirates, though he struggled to cement a regular starting spot in the star-studded Soweto squad.

After a series of stints at Richards Bay, Moroka Swallows, and Durban City, Makhubela now brings a wealth of experience to a Kruger United side hungry for top-flight football.

The ex-Pirates star Makhubela wasn’t the only arrival at the club on Friday. Kruger United also bolstered their backline by securing the services of sturdy centre-back Sipho Sibiya from Upington City FC.

In an official statement, the club expressed high hopes for their new recruits:

“The club is confident that [Makhubela’s] technical ability and understanding of the game will enhance the team’s attacking structure. Furthermore, the arrival of Sipho Sibiya adds crucial depth, composure, and physical presence to our defensive unit.”

Why This Matters for Kruger United

By adding Makhubela and Sibiya to a roster that already includes the likes of Tercious Malepe, Kruger United are sending a clear message to their rivals: they are building a squad with Premiership-level pedigree to navigate the gruelling NFD season.

Both players made their debut on Saturday as Kruger played to a 1-0 draw against Baroka FC at home in a league tie.