The 31-year-old versatile defender is convinced his team is strong enough to challenge for major honours.
Orlando Pirates recovered from shaky displays last season to win the MTN8, Nedbank Cup as well as finish second in the Premier Soccer League to seal a place in the 2024/25 Caf Champions League.
The Buccaneers' campaign starts on Saturday with an interesting MTN8 fixture against SuperSport United in the MTN8 quarter-final outing that will be staged at the Orlando Stadium. It is one of the biggest games we have in the annual competition.
The Soweto giants believe they have what it takes to not only win the domestic competitions but to also push for continental glory.
Bucs can't depend on last season's success
Pirates captain Innocent Maela has promised to fully support his teammates even if he doesn't get enough chances to play. He has further explained the mentality at the club as the new campaign kicks off.
“I think just like all the other seasons that I've been here, whether I play 90% or 60% of the games, it doesn't matter as much as the team wins,” the 31-year-old stated.
“I am a team player, so I always have to encourage the guys even if I am not playing. Football is a team sport, so I don't want to put myself ahead of the team.
“As a team we've been having conversations about raising the bar this season. We will be starting from scratch without thinking too much about what we achieved last season because that's gone now. We can't depend on last season's success without putting in the work this time around.”
Last season, Pirates lost to the Swanky Boys away in the Premier Soccer League before sharing a spoil at home.
