Betway Premiership: Orlando Pirates confirm the departure of two stars

Maela: Photo Credit: Orlando Pirates FC.

Orlando Pirates FC have announced the departure of captain Innocent Maela and midfielder Miguel Timm from the South Africa’s Betway Premiership team.

“From a boy with a dream to the captain of the ship. Innocent Maela, you lived the dream and led with pride. Thank you for the memories, the moments, and the legacy. Once. Always,” Pirates' statement reads.

“Thank you, Miguel Timm, for every tackle, every pass, and every battle fought. Wishing you all the best.”

Earlier, Pirates interim coach Mandla Ncikazi confirmed that the 32-year-old Maela is leaving to explore other career options.

"He's highly intelligent and I'm sure he's highly educated at home and in the institutions of learning – it's a blessing, and I'm sure his career is going to proceed,” Ncikazi told the South African Broadcasting Corporation.

“He's that type where it's not the end now, he's just taking another step and direction in his career, based on his humanity and his academic learning."

Maela, who graduated from the youth ranks before making 208 appearances and winning six trophies, played for the last time for the Soweto giants during the 1-1 draw with Magesi FC on Wednesday.

On the other hand, the 33-year-old Timm leaves after spending three seasons with Pirates. He signed from Marumo Gallants FC.