Devon Saal enjoying fresh start in semi-professional football with Ammar Soccer Ammar Academy

Former Maritzburg United winger Devon Saal says he is enjoying his return to semi-professional football after finding an environment he believes can help reignite his career.

The 34-year-old has joined Ammar Soccer Ammar Academy and has played in three matches since arriving at the club. Those fixtures came against Royal Blues, Game Changers FC (GP) and Grassy Park United, with Saal providing two assists.

His new team has also made a positive start to its Second Division campaign.

Saal is yet to score for Ammar Soccer Ammar Academy, but the former PSL player says his priority is helping the side achieve its objectives rather than focusing on his own goal tally.

“It’s been great and exciting, and I’m very grateful to the club for giving me a chance to showcase what I’ve got,” Saal told KickOff.

“This is an ideal environment for me to make a positive contribution, you know.”

Saal’s transition has been supported by head coach Jayrod Visagie, whose leadership has made a strong impression on the experienced player.

The winger praised Visagie’s tactical ability and his approach to managing the squad, saying the coach had helped establish a positive atmosphere within the group.

“Coach Jayrod is a very good coach. He knows how to handle players and is tactically very sound. His man-management is fantastic. You still have to give him the respect he deserves. I’m just enjoying every minute of it,” Saal said.

He also highlighted the freedom Visagie gives his players to express themselves on the pitch.

“He brings lots of joy to the game and gives players the freedom to express themselves. It’s refreshing to see.”

Saal’s return comes after his spell in the PSL with Maritzburg United, and he said he remains grateful for the opportunity to continue playing and contribute at his new club.

Despite not yet finding the net, his two assists in three appearances have helped Ammar Soccer Ammar Academy begin the Second Division season with encouragement.

For Saal, the move has provided more than simply a chance to resume his playing career. He described the club as an ideal setting in which to make a positive contribution, while crediting Visagie’s coaching and man-management for making the experience enjoyable.

The former professional is now focused on maintaining that impact as Ammar Soccer Ammar Academy continues its campaign.