Maritzburg United and veteran defender Mogamad De Goede part ways
29th September 2023
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SABC Sport can confirm Maritzburg United and veteran defender Mogamad De Goede have agreed to mutually part ways, allowing the player to potentially return to the DStv Premiership as a free agent.
The Team of Choice were relegated to the Motsepe Foundation Championship in June and have had to release several high-profile stars, but had delayed a decision on the 30-year-old's future until last week.
De Goede joined Maritzburg in January this year, following a surprise call by Stellenbosch to sell their captain to a rival in the topflight.
It was no surprise the centre back immediately then made it into the starting line-up under former coach Fadlu Davids – going on to make 20 appearances as Maritzburg battled to hold on to their premier division status.
The Cape Town-born De Goede was also made club captain in what was a true reflection of his leadership qualities.
With his clearance signed off before the transfer window deadline on 22 September, the experienced campaigner has the greenlight to join a club of his choice at any given point – and it’s likely there will be several suitors.
De Goede signed a three-year contract with Maritzburg when he made the switch from Stellies, but, with the Team of Choice relegated, their financial situation forced them to rethink their strategy.
The club has since sold midfielders Rowen Human, Karim Kimvuidi, Genino Palace and goalkeeper Ronaldo Leaner to name but a few.
Chairman Farook Kadodia subsequently released coach Davids and appointed Zipho Dlangalala as his replacement to mount a challenge for a swift return to the topflight.
SABC Sport understands De Goede has been offered to some of the elite league clubs looking to beef up their squads, and talks are currently ongoing.
