Richards Bay chairman Sifiso Biyela addresses Mhlongo's transfer to AmaZulu.
Biyela has confirmed that he will not take legal action to prevent Langelihle Mhlongo from joining AmaZulu, despite the persistent claims by Richards Bay that the player was still under contract.
The chairman emphasized his reluctance to engage in a legal battle with a player who no longer wishes to remain at the club. He believes that pursuing a claim for the money paid to Mhlongo under new contract terms would be futile.
Mhlongo was officially unveiled by AmaZulu after what turned out to be a protracted legal conflict within the PSL, with the ultimate decision favoring the player.
The midfielder, hailing from KwaMashu, asserts that he did not sign any new contract with Richards Bay. In contrast, the club argues that an extension was signed prior to the last season, with relevant terms outlined in the contract.
Biyela contends that an extension with a revised salary had been agreed upon at the season's start and expressed surprise at Mhlongo’s assertion of not signing a new deal.
The burgeoning dispute had reportedly led Mhlongo to abstain from participating in the club’s pre-season activities from July until November, affirming he would not resume training.
“It’s unreasonable for a player to receive a full-year salary increase and then deny any knowledge of the contract,” Biyela stated.
“While I could have pursued legal action for the money, I’m not vindictive. Why should we be burdened fighting for someone who doesn’t wish to stay with us?”
Biyela further noted his astonishment at how Mhlongo managed to obtain legal counsel, hinting at possible involvement from AmaZulu, which could potentially strain relations between the two clubs in KwaZulu-Natal.
“We often face conflicts in KZN due to a lack of mutual respect,” Biyela remarked.
“I recognize that some issues are not worth my time and effort. While we could spend R30,000 to appeal and invalidate the contract with AmaZulu, the question is, is it worth the trouble? Opting not to appeal doesn’t imply guilt.”
“We prefer not to further engage in this matter. Regardless of perceptions, the fact remains that Langa had a valid contract with us, which he signed. I even personally drove him to Durban when he signed.”
The 24-year-old midfielder, who can fill both the No. 8 and No. 10 positions, featured 65 times for Richards Bay, netting once.
When questioned about Mhlongo’s salary during his absence, Biyela was straightforward.
“He was not compensated since he did not report to work,” he clarified.
“If Mhlongo claims he didn’t sign a new contract, the reality is he played the previous season under an enhanced contract. If that wasn’t the case, where did the increased salary originate?”
“His monthly increases were directly associated with the contract he signed. Presently, he doesn’t have a place in the team. I initiated the dispute when I learned he was undergoing medical tests for AmaZulu. His signing there isn’t a surprise—he had already entered into agreements with them.”
“I had shown AmaZulu Mhlongo's contract with Richards Bay because I informed them, ‘I’m aware that you have my player in training.’”
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