‘Financially stable’ Andile Jali set to retire from football at 34?

‘Financially stable’ Andile Jali set to retire from football at 34?

Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates midfielder Andile Jali could retire from football as his playing career looks uncertain.

The 34-year-old was dismissed by Moroka Swallows together with other players after engaging in an “illegal protest” in December. Since January, the former Bafana Bafana star has not kicked a ball and remains without a club. His agent Mike Makaab said a meeting with ‘AJ’ was scheduled for the next weeks where the midfielder is expected to make a decision

Having played for both Sundowns and Pirates, Andile Jali might retire should he not find a suitable club. At his age, he remains one of the most experienced and influential players in the country.

“We are meeting with AJ in the next few weeks to discuss if he still wants to play,” Makaab told iDiski Times.

“If he says yes, obviously he will have to prepare himself, he is a professional and be ready for the upcoming season.”

Andile Jali could retire but is it too early to hang his boots?

Jali started his career at the University of Pretoria before moving to Orlando Pirates in 2009. He made his name at the Buccaneers, forming a formidable partnership with Oupa ‘Ace’ Manyisa in the middle of the park. After five years with the Sea Robbers, AJ moved to Belgium before joining Sundowns in 2018. He won five league titles with the Brazilians before he abruptly left last year.

Having left Chloorkop, Jali decided not to retire but to look elsewhere. He joined Swallows and was immediately made captain by his Steve Komphela. The club went under financial difficulties and Jali and other players staged a protest which led to their dismissal.

Speaking to Robert Marawa on MSWOn947 a few weeks ago, Andile Jali did not seem to entertain plans to retire but stated his finances were sorted.

‘AJ’ could decide his future in the next weeks, says agent

“Does Andile Jali have enough money left?” Robert Marawa asked the midfielder.

“You know? I have my own money,” Jali replied.

“I don’t know when they say enough money [the media], what do they mean.

“Investments?” Marawa asked. “Nice and sharp,” Jali responded.

It remains to be seen if Andile Jali will retire from professional football or find a new club. He played for five professional clubs and Bafana Bafana where he earned 49 caps for his country.

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