No Sorry, No Regret: Maluleka Breaks Silence on Chiefs–Sundowns Switch
George Maluleka has finally spoken openly about one of the most controversial transfers in recent South African football history — his move from Kaizer Chiefs to fierce rivals Mamelodi Sundowns in 2020.
And he has made one thing clear: he has no regrets and no apologies.
“I will not apologise to the fans for what I did,” Maluleka said.
“People didn’t know the full story”
At the time of his departure, Chiefs were leading the league table and chasing what looked like a long-awaited title. When the season later unravelled, many supporters pointed fingers at Maluleka’s exit.
But the former midfielder insists the narrative was far more complex.
“That year we were supposed to win the league. When I left and it didn’t happen, people blamed me — and I understand that. But there were too many dynamics that people didn’t know about,” he explained.
Behind-the-scenes pressures
Maluleka revealed that several off-field factors played a decisive role in his decision:
Administrative uncertainty at Naturena
The illness of senior club official Bobby Motaung, who required medical treatment
His contract entering its final months
The sudden disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic
“There were just too many things happening at once,” he said.
“It wasn’t betrayal”
Crucially, Maluleka stressed that his move to Sundowns was not an act of disloyalty.
“Sundowns came in while I was in the last months of my contract. It wasn’t betrayal — it was a professional decision,” he added.
He went on to spend two seasons with Masandawana before later continuing his career at AmaZulu.
Legacy still debated
Five years on, Maluleka’s switch remains a sore point for many Amakhosi supporters. But from the player’s perspective, the decision was shaped by timing, circumstance, and professionalism — not betrayal.
Whether fans accept that explanation or not, one thing is certain: George Maluleka has finally told his side of the story — and he’s standing by it.