Bradley Cross became the next player to bid farewell to Maritzburg United after their relegation from the DStv Premiership.
Cross, 22, only joined the Team of Choice in January after he became a free agent in July last year following his exit from Premier League side Newcastle United.
He was initially training with SuperSport United before also being assessed by Kaizer Chiefs after returning to South Africa after four years in Europe last month.
The former Black Aces and Bidvest Wits youth player moved to Germany in 2018 where he played for FC Schalke 04’s youth team before joining Newcastle United in England where he played in and captained the U23 team.
However, in January he joined Maritzburg and became a permanent starter under Fadlu davids, making 17 appearances. He has now closed the Maritzburg chapter after sharing a long farewell message on social media.
“Dear BLUE ARMY!
It is with mixed emotions that I write this message to bid you farewell. My time at the club has been filled with incredible memories, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences. From the moment I joined, I felt a sense of belonging that will stay with me forever.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone involved in the club, from the coaching staff to the players, the management, and the INCREDIBLE FANS!!! Your unwavering support and belief in me have been instrumental in my development as a footballer and as an individual. I am truly grateful for the opportunities and the friendships I have formed during my time here.
“Leaving Maritzburg Football Club is not an easy decision, but sometimes life presents us with new challenges and opportunities that we must embrace. As I embark on a new chapter in my career, I will carry the memories of my time here with pride and cherish the bonds I have formed.
“I would like to extend my appreciation to the fans who have cheered me on tirelessly (UMLUNGUUUU), both home and away. Your passion and dedication are the lifeblood of this club, and I will miss the electric atmosphere you create on Friday nights!! Your support has meant the world to me, and I hope you continue to rally behind the team and inspire them to new heights.
“To my teammates, thank you for being more than just colleagues. You have been my brothers on and off the field, sharing both triumphs and setbacks. The unity and camaraderie we have built will forever hold a special place in my heart. I am confident that each one of you will achieve greatness in your respective journeys.
“As I say goodbye to Maritzburg United, I do so with a heavy heart but also with excitement for the future. I will cherish the memories created here, Maritzburg will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to support the club from wherever I may be.
“With sincere gratitude and heartfelt farewells.”
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Cross became the latest player to leave Maritzburg after Travis Graham, Ali Meza, Renaldo Leaner, Wayde Jooste, Friday Samu, Siboniso Conco and King Ndovu had all already left the club following their relegation.
In addition, the club has also parted ways with he technical team around head coach Fadlu Davids, who has since been appointed as Josef Zinnbauer’s assistant at Raja CA.
