Chiefs legend reveals pre-Pirates talk with Sipho Mbule

Kaizer Chiefs legend Jabu Mahlangu has shared details of a conversation he had with Sipho Mbule before the midfielder’s move to Orlando Pirates.

Like Mbule, Mahlangu’s career was famously impacted by off-field challenges throughout his playing days, though Mbule still has the opportunity to turn his situation around.

Mbule is looking to revive his career with the Buccaneers after facing a series of setbacks. Before his move to Pirates, he received valuable advice from the legendary figure, Mahlangu, who intimately understands the journey of overcoming personal hurdles in professional football.

Affectionately known as the ‘Master Chef’, Mbule joined the Bucs in June and made a memorable debut this past Saturday at Orlando Stadium. He played a key role as the Soweto giants secured an MTN8 semi-final spot, defeating Polokwane City FC 2-0 with goals from Oswin Appollis and Patrick Maswanganyi.

Mahlangu’s Words of Wisdom to Mbule

Mahlangu, who previously played for both Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, is confident his advice will positively impact the 27-year-old.

“All these [Pirates] players are quality players, and they’re going to add value at Orlando Pirates,” Mahlangu shared on SABC Sport. “But Mbule, because of what he’s been going through personally, I think it’s time for him to revive himself.”

Mahlangu, formerly known as Jabu Pule, felt compelled to offer support to the Free State-born star, especially given his own similar experiences.

“I actually spoke to him on the phone. I spoke to Sipho on the phone before his move. I didn’t know he was going to Pirates. We spoke privately. I was giving him words of encouragement because people had started bashing him. And I’ve been in that situation in my playing career. So, I spoke to him, nothing else, just to give him positive energy. And I’m expecting more [from him this season],” Mahlangu explained.

He emphasised that his approach was non-judgmental. “I wasn’t judging him at all, the way people were bashing him on social media. Mina ngikhulume njenge grootman ebuya kuyo lento yokuthi wazi ibhola, and then ube ne lifestyle ethize disturbing your career. I’ve been there. [I spoke like a big brother who was equally talented and had lifestyle issues disturbing his career]. So I think those words of wisdom, I think.”