Ex-Orlando Pirates midfielder Larsen shares his Premier Soccer League promotion secret - 'I brought the right players'

Magesi FC sealed their place in the 2024/25 Premier Soccer League campaign after topping the second tier in the almost-ending campaign.

With just two rounds remaining, Dikwena tsa Meetse have an eight-point gap between them and the second-placed University of Pretoria.

Only a few fans could have anticipated Magesi to beat experienced teams like Maritzburg United and Marumo Gallants to promotion at the beginning of the season.

Clinton Larsen, a former Orlando Pirates player, has now explained the factors that contributed to his success.

"I knew that if I brought the right players in, and I had a lot of players who wanted to play for me, I could put together a solid team and that’s what we’ve done," the tactician told Hollywoodbets Sports.

"Not many knew this team [because it’s been back in the professional ranks for two years after the initial stint in 2016] and there are teams like JDR [Stars] and Tuks that have been trying to gain promotion for a long time."

Larsen further appreciated the free hand he received from the team's management to ensure he fully delivered.

"I would like to thank] my chairman and my CEO, I’ve never been at a club where they’ve allowed me 100% control of the team and football-related matters. Whether it is recruitment or running the team, they’ve given me the license to do it my way."

Despite having the likes of Deolin Mekoa, Rhulani Manzini, Diamond Thopola, Samuel Darpoh, Lesego Sebetlela, and Elvis Chipezeze who have PSL experience, Larsen might be forced to get more players to ensure he doesn't struggle at the top.

If he does not get the right players, Magesi might suffer like Cape Town Spurs who, after getting promoted, failed to live up to expectations and as a result, they might be relegated in the next few days.

It is interesting to see how the PSL's new boys will perform in their debut season after an impressive season.

The team will be aiming at ending the season on a high and building momentum during pre-season.