Gomora United part ways with 44-year-old ex-Orlando Pirates defender Rooi Mahamutsa ahead of new season

Gomora United FC have confirmed the release of veteran defender Rooi Mahamutsa, with the 44-year-old former Orlando Pirates centre-back leaving the club before the start of the 2026-27 campaign.

Club chairman Joe Seanego said Mahamutsa had been informed that last season would be his final one with the Motsepe Foundation Championship side, bringing an end to his spell as one of the team’s most experienced figures.

Mahamutsa, who previously starred for Pirates, played a key role for Gomora United in 2025-26, acting as both defensive organiser and dressing-room leader as the club successfully preserved their Motsepe Foundation Championship status in their debut season in the division.

“Mahamutsa, I think he has done his part on the pitch. Last season was his last. We have already informed him he is being released,” Seanego told KickOff.

‘Example’ to younger players

Seanego emphasised that, although the club had opted not to extend Mahamutsa’s stay, the defender’s professionalism and longevity would remain a benchmark for younger players at Gomora United.

“His long service is a lesson to the younger generation of players that taking care of your body and being self-dedicated can make you last long in this game,” the chairman said.

“Mahamutsa helped the team get promoted to professional football and also helped us save our NFD status.

“It’s proof that if you stay away from alcohol, drugs and the night life, and be dedicated to your job and kids as a father, you will go far.”

Gomora United, who only recently made the step into professional ranks, relied heavily on Mahamutsa’s experience as they adjusted to the demands of the National First Division, now known as the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

Injury forced retirement decision

Seanego revealed that an injury ultimately brought Mahamutsa’s career to an end and directly influenced the decision not to keep him for another season.

“His biggest letdown was the injury the sustained, and it forced him to retire. If it wasn’t for that injury, he was still going to be with us,” he said.

“We were blessed to have a legend like him play for us. We will always cherish that moment.”

While the chairman did not specify the nature or timing of the injury, his comments made clear that the club had been open to Mahamutsa continuing, had he remained fully fit.

Decorated domestic career

Mahamutsa enjoyed a highly successful career in South African football, particularly during his time at Orlando Pirates and later at Free State Stars.

Over the course of his playing days, he collected two league titles and two MTN8 trophies, underlining his status as one of the more accomplished defenders of his generation in the domestic game.

He also lifted the Telkom Knockout once, and added a Nedbank Cup winners’ medal – secured during his spell at Free State Stars – to complete a full set of major South African cup honours.

Mahamutsa’s exit leaves Gomora United without one of their most seasoned campaigners as they prepare for the 2026-27 Motsepe Foundation Championship season, with the club now needing to fill both the leadership and defensive void left by the former Pirates stalwart.