In one of the most intriguing transfer tales from South African football history, former striker Jimmy Khauleza has opened up about a dramatic moment in his career that nearly saw him wearing the black and white of Orlando Pirates — until Kaizer Chiefs’ Bobby Motaung stepped in with an urgent call that changed everything.
Speaking as part of an exclusive feature, Khauleza recounted how close he came to signing for Pirates alongside fellow striker David Radebe, only for Chiefs’ football manager to intervene at the eleventh hour.
“I received a call from Bobby Motaung,” Khauleza said. “He told me not to sign with Pirates as they were looking to sign me and David Radebe. He said, ‘Hey bro, get out of that car, we will come and fetch you. Don’t sign with Pirates, they are hijacking our deal.’”
According to Khauleza, the deal with Orlando Pirates was almost sealed. Both he and Radebe were in advanced talks with the Buccaneers and had already begun considering their futures with the Soweto giants. But Bobby Motaung, known for his aggressive negotiation style and deep commitment to Kaizer Chiefs, had other plans.
Motaung’s call reportedly came at the last possible moment — just as Khauleza was on the verge of finalizing the move. That phone call would ultimately sway Khauleza away from Orlando Pirates and back into the orbit of Naturena.
The story sheds light not only on the fierce rivalry between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, but also on the behind-the-scenes battles that have long shaped the destinies of top South African players. It also highlights the influence and power club executives like Motaung wield in directing transfer outcomes.
Khauleza went on to play for Kaizer Chiefs, enjoying memorable moments in gold and black. His experience serves as a reminder of how quickly a footballer’s path can be redirected — and how rivalry in South African football runs far deeper than what happens on the pitch.
This remarkable twist in his career is just one of many tales from the golden era of South African football — where a single phone call could change everything.
