With Orlando Pirates understood to be leading the race to sign Andile Jali, this week's Friday Debate focuses on whether the player's return to the Buccaneers would be good or bad for the club.
Soccer Laduma spoke to two former players and a supporter, and it seems that they all agree on one thing - that Jali should make a return to help the team, especially because they will be competing in the CAF Champions League next season.
Andries Sebola - former Pirates striker
I think it's going to be a good move, taking into consideration that Pirates are going back to Africa (to play in the CAF Champions League). The man has got experience and he has seen it all. He went to Belgium and he has been traveling on the continent with Sundowns. So, I think he would be a good addition at Pirates, especially with that experience. I think the players would also rely on him in terms of helping them to adjust to playing on the continent, because that's going to be a taxing period for Pirates next season. That's why I think it would be a good move. For the dressing room, I think he has to change his attitude, especially with the things we heard about what he did at Sundowns. But I think he was doing it because of the frustration of not playing. At Pirates, he needs to play a big part in the dressing room because of the experience he has and he has to encourage the younger players. Age, for me, is just a number and he can play a key role both on and off the field. He can attack and defend for the team, so that's why I am thinking he can contribute. I think players would learn a lot from him.
Jwarha - Pirates supporter
What can I say about Jali? All I know is that he is a hard worker. We won the treble back-to-back because he was one of the key players in the team during that time. He worked hard and I think it would be good for him to get a second chance at Pirates, especially now because we are going to play in Africa. I think it would be good for us if he can join because he is a die-hard. He will pick up that midfield. Remember, age is just a number. If your body still allows you to give service, then it should not be a problem. I think he would work very hard for the team and he will help other players in the team with the experience he has. It's up to him to train very hard and go back to the Jali that we know and to prove to the coach that he is fit to participate in the team.
Edward Motale - former Pirates captain
I would not have a problem. In fact, it would make me happy to see him back at the club. That's what we need. We need someone like him in that midfield, of his calibre, a person who will destroy (opposition attacks) and make things happen for the team. I have seen reports that there are some players who are going to leave Pirates, including Ben Motshwari. So, I think bringing in Jali would help complement (Miguel) Timm in the middle of the park. We know Timm is an attacking midfielder, so Jali can stay and Timm will be able to attack more. So, I'd love it if Jali can rejoin the team. Whatever happened with him at Sundowns is the past. He will start on a clean slate because everything is in the past. That's football. It's give and take. He just needs to focus on the present and the future.
