Controversial midfielder Andile "Mhlekazi" Jali (33) has found himself a new home with the Eastern Cape-based team Chippa United FC. The club confirmed the signing of the former Orlando Pirates and Sundowns captain today.

Jali was fired by the Moroka Swallows in December last year after 22 players protested over salaries. The former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder wanted to return to Swallows after being fired, but he lost his case at the PSL's Dispute Resolution (DRC) Chamber and was ordered to pay the costs of the DRC sitting. In a statement released by Umlilo, as the team is affectionately known, it's said: "Chippa United FC is delighted to announce the signing of the prominent Andile Jali, for the upcoming season. Born in Matatiele, in the Eastern Cape, Jali left the province to pursue a successful career in both international and domestic football. He is finally returning to his home province, bringing his wealth of experience and skills to strengthen our squad. Welcome back to the Eastern Cape, Mhlekazi," the statement reads.

Mhlekazi, as his teammates refer to him, made a name for himself after joining Orlando Pirates from Pretoria University in 2009. In 2014, he joined Belgian side KV Oostende, where he briefly worked with current South African national team coach Hugo Broos. He stayed at the club until 2018. He returned to South Africa the same year, where he resumed his career by winning silverware with Mamelodi Sundowns, where he remained until the end of the 2022/23 season. He was reportedly released from the club after he had a run with former Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena when he arrived in training intoxicated.