Richards Bay FC have made a significant statement of intent, unveiling 11 new players as they prepare for the upcoming 2025/26 season.
The KwaZulu-Natal based outfit, who secured an impressive eighth-place finish in the Betway Premiership last season to earn a coveted spot in the MTN8 tournament, are clearly aiming higher.
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The extensive list of new recruits includes notable names such as Gabadinho Mhango, Lindokuhle Mtshali, and Thabani Zuke, alongside Benson Mangolo, Halalisani Vilakazi, Ntokozo Nzama, Sboniso Madonsela, Philani Khumalo, Lundi Mahala, Mbulelo Nombengula, and Olwethu Mbambo. These additions are expected to provide a substantial boost to the squad’s depth and quality.
Club chairman Sfiso Biyela introduced the new players at an event on Tuesday, openly expressing his ambitious target for the “Natal Rich Boyz” to secure a top-four finish in the upcoming season.
Speaking to Times Live, Biyela reflected on last season’s missed opportunities: “If you look at games where we dropped points last season, especially matches we should have won, we could have easily finished in the top four.” This suggests a clear belief within the club that a higher league position was within reach and is now a realistic objective.
Ronnie Gabriel and Papi Zothwane will continue to lead the technical team for the new campaign. Head coach Gabriel outlined their philosophy, emphasizing continuity and progressive development. “I think it will be a continuation of last season.
We are still in the phase of adaptation and progression, so that process has to take place,” he stated. He further added, “In terms of training methods and how we prepare this group, it will remain exactly the same. For us, it’s about progressive development and giving the players the right tools to compete at the highest level.”
This influx of new talent, coupled with the stability in the coaching staff, signals Richards Bay’s strong ambition to not only compete in the MTN8 but also significantly improve their league standing.
Their opening MTN8 showdown against reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns will be an early test of their strengthened squad.