Stellenbosch FC’s head coach Steve Barker has announced two new signings and the exit of veteran midfielder Sihle Nduli, who is rumoured to be on the radar of Orlando Pirates.
The Western Cape outfit wrapped up an impressive Betway Premiership campaign with a goalless draw against Cape Town City in Saturday’s Mother City Derby. The result cemented a third-place finish for Stellenbosch – their highest ever – and confirmed their participation in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
Barker, speaking after the match, revealed that the club has already moved swiftly in the transfer market, securing the signatures of two promising players.
“We are a team that is proactive,” Barker said. “You may have seen in the news recently, we have already signed (Siviwe) Nkwali from Cape Town Spurs and Muzi (Muzomuhle Khanyi) from Hungry Lions.”
Nkwali, a South African junior international, and Khanyi, the top scorer in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, add depth and attacking potential to a Stellies squad that will be looking to build on a breakthrough campaign.
“So we are in the market to beef up where we need to,” Barker added. “We’re definitely active behind the scenes. Sometimes these things take a bit of time before you can finalise everything, but we’re making progress.”
On the outgoing front, Barker confirmed the departure of 29-year-old midfielder Sihle Nduli, who captained the side in their final league fixture. Nduli has been linked with a move to Orlando Pirates, though nothing has been confirmed.
“At this stage, there are obviously a couple of players for whom we won’t be renewing contracts,” Barker said. “Sihle Nduli is one of them.
“Personally, I want to thank him for the person, the player, and the passion he’s shown to this club. We are happy for him as he moves on, and we wish him the best.”
While further changes are expected in the coming weeks, Barker made it clear that squad strengthening remains a priority, especially with a continental campaign on the horizon.