Ex-Mamelodi Sundowns coach continues to raid Royal AM as Golden Arrows sign two players after snapping up former Orlando Pirates captain from troubled KZN club

Premier Soccer League Golden Arrows have raided relegated Royal AM and signed Siphesihle Msomi and Philani Sithebe, SPORTSWIRE reports.

Former Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has added the two players to his club's ranks, hoping to strengthen the playing unit, especially for next season's campaign.

According to SPORTSWIRE, Msomi and Sithebe have already been cleared by the South African Football Association (SAFA) to join Arrows.

Sithebe and Msomi's arrival follows the earlier acquisition of Shadrack Kobedi, Sabelo Sithole, and Ayabulela Maxwele.

Former Orlando Pirates defender and captain Thabo Matlaba has been training with Arrows, and his move is expected to be finalised too.

Players from troubled Royal AM have been moving out in search of new clubs, with Khulekani Shezi already signed for Sekhukhune United. Sbangani Zulu and attacking midfielder Mfundo Thikazi have crossed over to Richards Bay.

Royal AM players are free to join other clubs because of the troubles the club found itself in with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) before they were expelled from the PSL fraternity. The players had to endure months without pay as the battle with the state tax authority persisted.

Legally, the players are moving as free agents because of Fifa regulations that state if a player goes without payment, he has legal rights to terminate his contract with the club.

After Royal AM were expelled after failing to honour their matches, the PSL’s Board of Governors relegated them.

Royal AM's relegation means the team that finishes 15th in the PSL table will proceed to the relegation/promotional playoffs. It also meant that the top tier continues with 15 teams, and all would have played 28 games when the season ends, as opposed to 30 matches.

PSL has recommended that Safa promote three teams from the ABC Motsepe League in the play-offs to balance the impact of the cancellation of Royal AM membership.

Abafana Bes’thende, who are chasing a top-eight finish, are scheduled to face AmaZulu on April 26.

On May 3, they will face Stellenbosch before a game against Pirates on May 6.