Golden Arrows coach Dladla backs Ronaldo van Neel for Betway Premiership breakthrough

Golden Arrows coach Pitso Dladla believes Ronaldo van Neel has the ability to develop into a leading player in the Betway Premiership after impressing during pre-season.

The forward arrived at Arrows after sharing the Motsepe Foundation Championship’s top-scorer award last season, having scored 13 league goals for Hungry Lions.

Dladla said Van Neel’s playing style already suits Golden Arrows, which has helped the attacker settle quickly into the club’s approach. The coach added that supporters may not have to wait long to see the new signing in a competitive match.

“He is a very exciting. If you know the boy well, he is a Golden Arrows type of player. He has been doing well. He has adapted quicker than we thought. He is at home and I’d say expect to see him sooner. Even during the friendly games we were playing, he did so well. I hope he transfers his performances to the Betway Premiership,” Dladla said recently.

Van Neel’s performances in Arrows’ friendly matches have strengthened Dladla’s belief that the 13-goal striker can make the step up from the second tier of South African football.

The coach highlighted the forward’s movement, ability to identify attacking spaces and willingness to work for the team as qualities that could make him a threat in the top flight.

“He is very mobile. He understands the spaces upfront very well, where he can hurt the defenders. He is good in terms of dribbling and work ethic. He has got a high work ethic and it’s exciting to see. He trains like a professional and he is a player any coach would love to have in their team.”

Dladla’s assessment comes as Golden Arrows continue to shape their squad ahead of the new season. The Durban club have also confirmed the signing of winger Sifiso Mazibuko from University of Pretoria.

Mazibuko enjoyed a productive campaign with AmaTuks last season, contributing with both goals and assists. His arrival is set to become increasingly important for Arrows following the departure of Siyanda Ndlovu to Mamelodi Sundowns.

With Ndlovu no longer available, Mazibuko is expected to take on a significant role on the wing. His previous season at University of Pretoria gave him experience of influencing matches in the final third, while Van Neel’s arrival provides Arrows with another attacking option.

Dladla now hopes Van Neel can carry his pre-season form into the Betway Premiership. The coach’s comments suggest the striker has already adapted to his new surroundings and could be involved sooner rather than later as Golden Arrows begin their campaign.