Controversy shrouds the return of Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie-linked Bloemfontein Celtic, new name & logo proposed - 'I am the owner 100%... they cannot bring back the club without the name'

A consortium affiliated with Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie is said to be interested in buying SuperSport United, who are up for sale.

This is part of efforts to revive Bloemfontein Celtic, whose Premier Soccer League status was purchased by Royal AM in 2021.

However, Free State businessman Edward Modise, who bought Celtic's naming rights from Max Tshabalala, argues Phunya Sele Sele's name cannot be used.

This has seen a new team, Celtic United and Siwelele Football Club likely to emerge from the sale of SuperSport.

“If people doubt my legitimacy over the Bloemfontein Celtic ownership, they can check with Cipro [Companies and Intellectual Property Registration Office]. I am the owner 100%," said Modise as per Sunday World.

“I have been reading the stories, and I do not know who these people are. I was not even approached by people with a common goal. 

“If I was approached, I would listen, and I am willing to negotiate for the sake of the football-loving people of the province; I would not hide.

“I am told that the people are in a consortium with the honourable minister McKenzie. But I say they cannot bring back the club without the name," added Modise. 

“What they are doing is not honourable; there are so many names they can call it. Why do they want to call it Celtic United? This is not done in good faith.”

If a new team emerges from the sale of SuperSport United under the name Celtic United or Siwelele FC, some fans could be left conflicted.

Such names and the logo do not directly read to Bloemfontein Celtic, but would be a totally different team.

This also comes as some Bloemfontein Celtic supporters had migrated to Marumo Gallants, whose nickname is now Siwelele sa Marumo.

The next days could see the sale of Matsatsantsa being officially confirmed.

The buyers would want to finalise the deal as soon as possible to allow a stable pre-season.