Chippa United on Thursday announced the acquisition of former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Andile Jali on a one-year deal.
“Chippa United FC is delighted to announce the signing of the prominent Andile Jali for the upcoming season,” Chippa said in a statement.
“Born in Matatiele in the Eastern Cape, Jali left the province to pursue a successful career in both international and domestic football.
“He is finally returning to his home province, bringing his wealth of experience and skills to strengthen our squad. Welcome back to the Eastern Cape, mhlekazi [sir]”
Free transfer
The well-travelled tenacious midfielder joins the Chillie Boys on a free transfer following a six-month hiatus when he parted ways with the Moroka Swallows last season due to financial issues.
Swallows have since sold their status to Marumo Gallants.
Jali joins Chippa with a wealth of experience, having played for Pirates before jetting off to ply his trade in the Belgian Pro League, where he played for KV Oostende between 2014 and 2018.
The 34-year-old returned to South Africa and signed for Sundowns, where he spent about six years.
He racked up 142 appearances in all competitions for the DStv Premiership champions and won five league titles.
Mendeieta leaves the Brazilians
Meanwhile, Sundowns midfielder Junior Mendieta surfaced at a Greek Super League outfit Volos FC.
“PAE Volos announces the acquisition of the 31-year-old Argentinian midfielder Júnior Leandro Mendieta,” the club said in a statement.
“Mendieta immediately after signing his new contract went to Portaria where he integrated with the rest of the Volos team and already started training. PAE Volos welcomes Júnior Leandro Mendieta to its family.”
Mendieta left Sundowns after one season from Stellenbosch FC, where he won the league title and the inaugural African Football League last season.
The Masandawana are yet to make an official announcement about his departure.
