Orlando Pirates legend Innocent Maela has officially retired from football.
The Buccaneers captain was released by the club following the end of last season.
Despite only being 33-years-old, Maela recently revealed the the spark is no longer there and retirement on a high was for the best.
Orlando Pirates legend officially retires
Innocent Maela joined Orlando Pirates back in 2017 in a move which would literally change his life.
The talented right-back went on to make over 200 appearances for the Buccaneers. He also had the opportunity to lead the club for a number of those appearances.
Now, the former Bafana Bafana defender has confirmed he has officially hung up his boots.
“I think for me, retiring at the time that I retired, it was the right time. When I was searching for that spark, I couldn’t find it anymore. I tried my best to help the team, and I felt it was time,” the Orlando Pirates legend told FARPost.
Maela ready for new role
The former Orlando Pirates star confirmed that he wishes to remain in football. And while coaching is an option, for now Maela wants to focus on the administrative side of the game!
“Football is my life. I’ve played football ever since I could remember. I’m definitely planning on staying in the game be it coaching or administration. But if I were to choose right now, I would definitely choose admin rather than being a coach.”
Innocent Maela registered six goals while assisting 12 more for Orlando Pirates.