Thalenthe Mbatha Travels To KZN Despite Suspension Rumours

Orlando Pirates star middlefielder Thalente Mbatha travels with the squad to KwaZulu-Natal despite rumours of being suspended.

On Tuesday morning, the South African football fraternity was hit by the news that Mbatha has been suspended by Pirates after arriving in training under the influence of alcohol.

IN OTHER NEWS: Thalente Mbatha Allegedly Suspended By Orlando Pirates 

However, the South African international quickly dismissed the rumours and stated that he just returned from training and he will be part of the Pirates team that will play against Golden Arrows.

“They said I am not training, you listen to everything and I just came back from training. People can say whatever about me, but I am coming from training,” Mbatha said.

You guys will see me tomorrow [when Pirates play against Golden Arrows].”

Meanwhile, his agent, Mike Makaab has threatened to take legal route should individuals responsible for statements not issue an apology.

“It is deeply disappointing to see defamatory and unfounded allegations being made about a professional footballer’s character and conduct,” Mike Makaab stated.

“The claim that Thalente Mbatha arrived at training under the influence is completely false.

“Thalente was injured and has since resumed training with his team.

“Any suggestion that his absence was due to serious misconduct is not only damaging to his reputation but also defamatory.

“We demand a public apology on social media to the player, his family, and his club. Should this not be forthcoming, we reserve all rights to pursue appropriate legal action.

“Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of democracy, but it does not extend to the spread of baseless falsehoods that harm an individual’s reputation.”

With many unsure about whether he will be part of the club’s squad that will face Arrows, the club released a video clip on X of the players landing in Durban and the 24-year-old was among the players.

The Buccaneers takes on Arrows later today at Mpumalanga Stadium in Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal with kick off set for 7h30 pm.