SAFPU role forces Hlatshwayo to confront uncertain next chapter

The 35-year-old centre-back was officially voted in following a special elective congress held last week, ushering in a board largely made up of active players tasked with safeguarding the interests of their peers.

Hlatshwayo currently finds himself without a club after his contract was not renewed when Siwelele FC acquired the status of SuperSport United at the end of last season, a move that also paved the way for the franchise’s relocation to Bloemfontein.

While the SAFPU constitution restricts the president from continuing to play, Hlatshwayo stopped short of confirming that his boots are already off.

“We all understand what the constitution outlines in terms of roles and responsibilities,” he told SABC Sport. 

“Only the deputy president and other board members are allowed to keep playing, but there hasn’t been any urgency to make announcements.”

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He added that discussions with the union’s leadership would provide direction in the coming weeks.

“There’s a lot that needs attention as we head into the new year. Once we’ve sat down and properly mapped out the way forward, there will be clarity,” the ex-Bafana Bafana skipper elaborated further. 

Hlatshwayo acknowledged that accepting nomination for the presidency came with significant implications, admitting he did so fully aware of the possible personal cost.

“This is a responsibility I didn’t take lightly,” he said. 

“I knew it would require tough decisions.”

For one of the most respected defenders of his generation, those decisions appear increasingly imminent.