Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela was understood to have signed a new contract when his previous deal came to an end at the conclusion of the last season.
The two parties started talks about the contract’s extension early this year. However, the discussions extended until June.
According to Soccer Laduma, Maela, who remains the longest serving member now at Pirates, penned a two-year deal and option to extend for a further year.
This means he will be with the Sea Robbers until June 2026, with the possibility for the club to activate the one-year extension, thereby prolonging his tenure until June 2027.
HOW LONG IS MAELA’S NEW CONTRACT AT PIRATES
“I know the club hasn't announced yet but all the parties involved have agreed to a two-year contract with a one-year option,” a source told Soccer Laduma.
“You know his contract was expiring in June this year. So the new contract is from July this year until June 2026 but with a one-year option it could go on until June 2027.
“If you look at the current squad, he is the longest serving member and the club wants to keep him so that he helps the new players.
“Also the younger players understand the culture of the club and that's why he is the captain even if he won't be playing as much as other defenders or players. So the new contract is two years plus a one-year option.”
Maela, who joined Pirates in 2014, has made 202 appearances, scoring six goals and registering 12 assists in the process.
