Few facts to know about Siwelele FC

The sale of SuperSport United to Siwelele FC is a double-edged sword for SA football, given what the two clubs represented and will they will represent going forward.

SuperSport had been in existence for over 31 years, and during that time they’ve won three titles and produced some of the finest talents.

On the other hand, the people of Bloemfontein, where Siwelele originates from, boast the most passionate football supporters in the land due to singing and chants.

Siwelele’s purchase of SuperSport is still awaiting the approval of the PSL, but, below, we look at five things that “we know so ar” about the incoming top-flight outfit.

Deal has been on the cards for some time 

Sports minister Gayton McKenzie has been publicly endorsing the return of a Bloemfontein-bred based outfit to elite football.

However, after failing to get the naming rights of Bloemfontein Celtic, the people “associated” with McKenzie named the club Siwelele Football Club.

Siwelele’s head honcho is McKenzie’s son

McKenzie’s son, Calvin Le John, is the chairman of Siwelele FC as the father can’t be part of the ownership due to his government and political portfolio.

Calvin changed his surname to Le John as he didn’t want to be under the shadow of his father after acquiring most of the ownerships in the family businesses.

Siwelele FC are not Bloemfontein Celtic

Siwelele are not Bloemfontein Celtic as businessman Eddie Modise owns the naming rights of the defunct beloved club after buying them from Max Tshabalala for R5 Million.

So in future, there are chances that Siwelele and Celtic might compete in the PSL at the same time, unless Modise decides to sell the naming rights to Lee John and his consortium. 

Siwelele can retain SuperSport’s coaching staff

Once Siwelele acquires the status of SuperSport, they’ll also be responsible for certain resources, including the contracted coaching staff, and players.

As such, it has since emerged that Siwelele are interested in retaining the services of Andre Arendse and Grant Johnson who saved SuperSport from relegation recently.

Two teams in Manguang next season

The establishment of Siwelele will see two PSL top-flight outfits being based in Mangaung next season, having Marumo Gallants moved to the city last season.

Gallants moved to the City of Roses eager to either awaken the sleeping spirit of Celtic or prey on the passionate football fanbase, but they’ll now get a run for their money from Siwelele - if they stay put!