Mphahlele is one of the few players to have captained both Chiefs and Sundowns, but before establishing himself in the Premier Soccer League, his ambition was to wear the famous black and white of Pirates.
“When I was a little kid, I’ve always wanted to play for Orlando Pirates.”
The former right-back said he admired Pirates because of the legendary players who represented the club during his childhood.
“I loved Orlando Pirates because everyone loved Chiefs. But there was this team that had the likes of Old John, Jimmy, Mngomeni, that generation. I looked at them and I was like, ‘One day, I wanna be there.’”
Pirates came close in 2011
Mphahlele’s childhood dream almost became reality in 2011 when Pirates’ then-technical director Stanley “Bra Stan” Tshabalala attempted to sign him from Moroka Swallows.
He recalled meeting Tshabalala at Exclusive Books in Hyde Park, where the Pirates official told him he wanted him at the club.
“The opportunity came so many times, I swear on my grandmother’s life. Bra Stan always wanted me at Pirates.”
Tshabalala even envisioned Mphahlele forming a defensive partnership with Happy Jele.
However, Mphahlele’s relationship with Swallows chairman Leon Prins made the decision more complicated.
The defender said Prins had provided significant financial support to his family and even helped his mother build their family home, making it difficult for him to simply walk away.
Sundowns beat Pirates to his signature
With both Pirates and Sundowns interested, Mphahlele wanted the transfer to be handled properly.
Sundowns eventually reached an agreement with Swallows involving money and players, including Luvhengo Mungomeni.
Mphahlele initially thought the move could collapse after failing to agree on certain terms with Sundowns.
“I went to Sundowns and when I got there, we didn’t agree on certain things. I told them I’m heading back to Swallows.”
