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Joane

Joane Overview

Sipho Mbule, Orlando Pirates, December 2025

Pirates urged to offer Mbule new contract -'He is the best player in South Africa'

The arrival of the 27-year-old at Soweto was seen as a revival of his career following a disappointing spell in Pretoria, and the Bucs faithful quickly took to him. But recently he has struggled to live up to the promising glimpses he once showed. Injuries have also played a part in his setbacks. With his one-year contract soon expiring, time is running out for the playmaker, and fans, along with former players, are beginning to debate whether he has done enough to earn a long-term stay at Mayfair.

Iqraam Rayners, Mamelodi Sundowns vs Magesi FC, September 2025

Chiefs legend delivers crucial lessons for Bafana Bafana attackers ahead of WC

Over the years, some high-profile strikers have come out of Mzansi, but recently, the upcoming ones have struggled to reach the standards set by their predecessors. As Hugo Broos looks forward to naming his World Cup squad, he should be scratching his head on whether the available centre-forwards will deliver. Before then, though, a retired striker has shared lessons for the current crop.

Miguel Cardoso Mamelodi Sundowns

Cardoso, Ouaddou & PSL coaches warned about referees

Referees play critical roles in any football competitions but are always on the verge of a severe dressing-down if they make decisions considered biased. The coaches have always expressed their dissatisfaction openly when they feel decisions made were against their teams. Although freedom of expression is allowed, an experienced tactician has cautined his colleagues against public condemnation of the match officials.

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Standings

Premier League crestPremier League

PosTeamPWDLFA+/-PTSForm
1Orlando Pirates crestOrlando Pirates1914233182344
W
W
L
W
W
2Mamelodi Sundowns FC crestMamelodi Sundowns FC19135132102244
W
W
W
W
W
3Sekhukhune United crestSekhukhune United209652114733
D
L
W
W
L
4Durban City crestDurban City209561914532
D
W
W
L
W
5AmaZulu FC crestAmaZulu FC209471918131
D
L
L
L
W
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History

Manchester United, often simply referred to as "United," are one of the most iconic and successful football clubs in the world, based in Old Trafford, Greater Manchester, England. The club was founded as Newton Heath LYR Football Club in 1878 by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway depot at Newton Heath. The team changed its name to Manchester United in 1902 and moved to its current home, Old Trafford, in 1910.

Famous players

Manchester United have been home to some of the greatest footballers in history. Sir Bobby Charlton, a World Cup winner with England in 1966, is arguably the most iconic figure in the club's history. Other legendary players include George Best, known for his flair and skill, and Eric Cantona, who brought a winning mentality to the club during the 1990s. More recent stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, and Paul Scholes have also contributed significantly to the club's success.

Honours

Manchester United are one of the most decorated clubs in English football, having won a record 20 Premier League titles (formerly the First Division). They have also lifted the FA Cup 12 times, the League Cup five times, and the UEFA Champions League three times. The club's dominance in English football was particularly evident during the 1990s and early 2000s under manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Managers

Sir Alex Ferguson is undoubtedly the most successful manager in Manchester United's history. He spent 26 years at the club, leading them to an unprecedented era of success. Before Ferguson, managers like Matt Busby and Wilf McGuinness played crucial roles in shaping the club's identity. More recent managers, including David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, and José Mourinho, have faced the challenge of maintaining the club's high standards.

Stadium

Old Trafford, often referred to as the "Theatre of Dreams," is one of the most famous stadiums in the world. With a capacity of roughly 75,000, it is among the largest football stadiums in the United Kingdom. The stadium has hosted numerous major matches, including UEFA Champions League finals and FIFA World Cup matches.

Location

Manchester United are based in the city of Manchester, which is located in the northwest of England. The club's home ground, Old Trafford, is situated in the Trafford borough. Manchester is a major industrial city with a rich footballing heritage.

Owners

In February 2024, British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe's company, INEOS, acquired a significant 25% stake in Manchester United. This acquisition granted Ratcliffe sporting control over the club, placing him in a position to influence key decisions related to its operations.

Ratcliffe has already made a substantial financial commitment to Manchester United. His large investments demonstrate his dedication to the club's success and his willingness to provide the necessary resources for its growth.

Frequently asked questions

Andries 'Pele Pele' Mkhwanazi and Bethuel Mokgosinyana are considered the founding fathers of the club which was formed in 1937.

Dr Irvin Khoza took over as club secretary and owner in 1991.

The club plays home fixtures at Orlando Stadium in Soweto with the ground being owned by the City of Johannesburg.

They are known by several nicknames, including: The Sea Robbers, The Bucs, Happy People and Buccaneers.

33 official domestic trophies plus one Caf Champions League (1995) and one Caf Super Cup (1996).

Nine times under different auspices. PSL (4), NSL (1), NPSL (4).

Happy Jele made 401 appearances for the club

Bendict Vilakazi scored 52 goals for the club.