Mhlongo On His Acrimonious Richards Bay Exit

New AmaZulu signing Langelihle Mhlongo has admitted he was unhappy with the manner in which he left Richards Bay after spending four years at the club.

Mhlongo recently won his case against Richards Bay at the PSL DRC, maintaining throughout the dispute that he never signed a contract extension ahead of the new season.
As a result, he chose to remain at home and not train with the Natal Rich Boyz, who insisted he had a valid contract but refused to pay him because he was “not reporting for duty.”

After the matter was resolved last week, AmaZulu—long-time admirers of the pint-sized midfielder—moved quickly to secure his signature.

“I spent four seasons there, and they helped me a lot because it was the only club that gave me an opportunity to become a professional player,” Mhlongo said.

“I want to express my gratitude for the time I spent with them and to thank the fans for supporting and encouraging me.

“I’m where I am today because they played their part.”

Mhlongo, who can operate as both a No. 8 and No. 10, made 65 appearances for Richards Bay, scoring once.

He believes joining AmaZulu is a major step forward in his career.

“AmaZulu is a big club,” said Mhlongo.
“I know I will learn a lot here, and more people will start to take notice of my work. All I can say is thank you to the club for giving me the opportunity to be one of their players.”

His arrival coincides with the registration of Liam Bern, after Cape Town Spurs dropped their appeal to the SAFA Appeals Board.

Unlike Mhlongo, Bern has been training with AmaZulu for the past four months while waiting for clearance, as Spurs fought to claim a transfer fee despite their relegation to amateur football last season.

Usuthu, currently sixth on the Betway Premiership table with 18 points from 11 matches, have not played since their 4 November home defeat to Polokwane City.

They return to league action on Saturday at 15:30, when they host Siwelele at Moses Mabhida Stadium.