Golden Arrows continue raid of Royal AM with two more signings

Golden Arrows have continued to reinforce their squad following the collapse of Royal AM, with Siphesihle Msomi and Philani Sithebe becoming the latest players to sign for the Durban club.

The duo join a growing list of players who have made the move from the now-expelled side, as Arrows look to capitalise on the availability of quality free agents. Thabo Matlaba, Shadrack Kobedi, Sabelo Sithole and Ayabulela Maxwele have also linked up with the team in recent weeks.

According to reports, that list might grow to eight with goalkeeper Xolani Ngcobo and defender Ayanda Jiyane might be headed to the Lamontville-based club soon. 

Head coach Manqoba Mngqithi expressed satisfaction with the contributions of the new arrivals as they begin to settle into the system.

“I’m happy with the contributions of the players that we got late in the season. I must say that. I think they are contributing fairly well in what we are trying to do,” said Mngqithi.  

 “The impact and contribution of all the players who have not been playing regularly, even within the club, is looking good.”

Matlaba was handed his debut in the recent Durban Derby against AmaZulu, coming on in the first half following an injury to Brandon Theron. Msomi and Sithebe are expected to feature in the coming weeks as the club integrates the new additions more fully.

The players joined Arrows on free transfers after Royal AM failed to meet their contractual obligations. Months of unpaid wages left players legally entitled to terminate their contracts under Fifa regulations. 

Safa subsequently issued the necessary clearances, allowing players such as Msomi and Sithebe to finalise moves elsewhere.

Royal AM’s inability to fulfil fixtures in the second half of the season led to their expulsion from the league. The Premier Soccer League confirmed the decision last week, with the Board of Governors ruling that the club would no longer participate in the current campaign

As a result, the PSL will proceed with 15 teams for the remainder of the season. The club that finishes in 15th place will take part in the promotion-relegation playoffs, and all sides will now play a total of 28 matches instead of the usual 30.

Other former Royal AM players have also found new homes. Khulekani Shezi has signed for Sekhukhune United, while Sbangani Zulu and Mfundo Thikazi have joined Richards Bay FC.

Royal AM’s collapse came amid serious financial issues, including a reported R40 million tax debt pursued by SARS against club owner Shauwn Mkhize. 

With the club unable to pay its players and operational costs, and no buyer found after the team was put up for sale, the PSL formally terminated its membership.

In the meantime, Arrows have acted quickly and quietly to bolster their squad — adding depth and experience without spending a cent on transfer fees.