Veteran defender Thabo Matlaba could be set for a return to top-flight action, following his exit from Royal AM.
After spending two seasons with the now-defunct Royal AM — having joined from Moroka Swallows — Matlaba is once again on the lookout for a new club. The experienced 37-year-old has chosen to remain in KwaZulu-Natal, where he’s currently training with Golden Arrows.
He’s not alone either — former Royal AM teammate Philani Sithebe is also training with the club. The duo are being assessed by Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi and his technical team as they weigh up potential squad additions before the season wraps up.
Matlaba is no stranger to PSL fans. Known for his explosive runs and long-range shots, he made his debut in 2010 with Free State Stars before making a big move to Orlando Pirates in 2012. During his time with the Buccaneers, he helped the club win domestic silverware and featured in both the 2013 CAF Champions League and 2015 Confederation Cup finals.
Since leaving Pirates in 2019, he’s had short stints with Black Leopards, Swallows, and most recently, Royal AM — all of which have now folded or faced serious instability. Despite that, Matlaba remains hopeful that Arrows could be the fresh start he needs.
If all goes well in training, the Tembisa-born star may find himself back on the PSL pitch before the current campaign concludes.
