Golden Arrows continues to recruit players from Royal AM, their latest acquisition being Siphesihle Msomi.

Furthermore, in addition to Msomi, Arrows have signed Philani Sithebe, following the recent additions of Shadrack Kobedi, Sabelo Sithole, and Ayabulela Maxwele in the past couple of weeks, also from Royal AM.

Abafana Bes’Thende, who are scheduled to host AmaZulu in the Durban Derby at Mpumalanga Stadium, secured these players on free transfers.

The players were within their rights to join clubs of their choosing due to months of unpaid salaries by Royal AM. FIFA regulations stipulate that a player who goes without payment for such a duration is legally entitled to immediately terminate their contract and join a team of their choosing.

Given this situation, Msomi and Sithebe obtained their clearances from the South African Football Association (SAFA) to finalize their signings with Arrows. These players were compelled to seek new clubs after the Premier Soccer League (PSL) terminated Royal AM’s membership due to the club’s failure to fulfill its obligation to play matches in the second half of the season.

On Thursday, the PSL’s Board of Governors decided that Royal AM has been effectively relegated due to their expulsion from the league. Consequently, the team that finishes 15th in the table will proceed to the Relegation and Promotional playoffs. The PSL will now operate with 15 teams, and all clubs will play 28 matches instead of the usual 30.

Khulekani Shezi has also moved, joining Sekhukhune United, while Sbangani Zulu and attacking midfielder Mfundo Thikazi have both signed with Richards Bay.

Royal AM’s predicament arose after the South African Revenue Service (SARS) reportedly pursued the club for alleged outstanding taxes of R40 million owed by Royal AM owner Shauwn Mkhize. As a result of Ms. Mkhize’s assets and accounts being frozen, the club’s last match was on December 29th, a 3-1 loss to TS Galaxy. Consequently, players were forced to prioritize their own welfare as SARS took control of the club. In an attempt to recover the funds owed by Ms. Mkhize, SARS put the club up for sale but was unable to find a buyer, ultimately leading to the termination of Royal AM’s PSL membership.