Mamelodi Sundowns have confirmed the release of stalwarts Anthony Laffor, Wayne Arendse and youngster Katlego Otladisa.
Laffor and Arendse were among the longest-serving members of the squad after almost a decade at Chloorkop.
They both joined the club in 2012 from SuperSport United and Santos respectively, while Otladisa (24) was signed from the now defunct Platinum Stars two years ago.
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The departures of Laffor (35) and Arendse (36) signal the end of an era.
The veterans were there at the beginning of the dominant era under former coach Pitso Mosimane.
Midfielder Hlompho Kekana and goalkeeper Denis Onyango are the only remaining players from that era with Mosimane, who recently left the club to take over the coaching job at Al Ahly in Egypt.
In paying homage to Laffor and Arendse, Sundowns said in a statement: “The duo has played a vital role over the past eight years at the Brazilians. ‘Snoti’, as Laffor is known in football circles, is known best for his mesmerising defending and coming off the bench to close those clutch moment goals.
“Wayne on the other hand has been a rock-solid member of the defence. His leadership from the back has seen him don the captain’s armband and his aerial ability made him an offensive threat in the opponent’s box.
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“Thank you, gentlemen, for your contribution to the club and joy you have brought to the Yellow Nation.”
Sundowns recently released other players on loan.
Phakamani Mahlambi joined AmaZulu this week while Nyiko Mobbie and Luvuyo Phewa were sent to Chippa United. Sammy Seabi (Swallows FC) and Nicholus Lukhubeni (Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivandila) were among the first to be offloaded from the bloated squad after Sundowns brought in a big team of new players before the start of the season.
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