A leopard never changes its spots. This maxim lives another day through the antics of former Bafana Bafana captain Mbulelo “OJ” Mabizela.
The former star defender is set to join the unemployed queue with immediate effect.
According to reliable sources, AmaZulu are set to fire Mabizela as their under-13 coach after going AWOL on several occasions since last month.
His appointment by the Durban club early this year was viewed by many as a last chance saloon for him following a plethora of wasted job opportunities.
The Pietermaritzburg-born Mabizela was drafted into the Usuthu development structures alongside Andile Cele and Reneilwe Letsholonyane. Their appointment was part of the revamping of the youth structures at KwaZulu-Natal’s biggest football club.
“Yes, I can confirm OJ (Mabizela) is on his way out. He has left the management with no choice but to release him because of his wayward ways,” the source said.
“The club had thought he would grab the coaching gig with both hands, but OJ has disappointed almost everyone in the team.”
During his playing days Mabizela earned the reputation for being wayward in behaviour despite his rare talent.
He caught the attention of the fraternity in his teen years at then second-tier Maritzburg City in 2000. Despite his young age, he was already a captain of the team. Orlando Pirates swiftly moved to scoop him and OJ’s leadership qualities lived on as he captained the Bucs.
Big moves to Pirates and Tottenham
However, despite a brilliant football career, Mabizela was often in the news for unbecoming off-field behaviour. After his exploits at Orlando Pirates, he would be snatched by English side Tottenham Hotspur in 2003 where his stay was cut short because of misbehaviour. His next stop was Valerenga in Norway and upon returning home he turned out for Mamelodi Sundowns, Platinum Stars, Bidvest Wits, Chippa United, Mpumalanga Black Aces, AmaZulu FC and Royal Eagles.
AmaZulu disputed the touted reason for Mabizela’s absence. PRO Philani Ndlela says the club’s youth coach had been unwell for some time.
“He has been in and out of hospital,” Ndlela said.
“The club has as a result granted him leave of absence.”
Visit SW YouTube Channel for our video content
