Surprise Ralani joins Jali, Domingo and Motupa in Downs exit

The veteran playmaker was a surprise signing in January 2022, but was used effectively by the Downs technical team in helping them win the league. 

But after 18 months his contract is up and sources have informed the public broadcaster, the club will not trigger the option on the initial agreement, meaning he will become a free agent on 30 June. 

Ralani joins what is becoming a growing list of departures at Chloorkop with teammates Andile Jali and Haashim Domingo the two confirmed exits at the moment and more expected ahead of the upcoming season. 

Indications are that Sundowns are trimming the squad this season as head coach Rulani Mokwena, alongside sporting director Flemming Berg, aims to reduce the average age – striker Gift Motupa is another player reportedly on the way out. 

Although now surplus to requirements, Ralani will look back at a memorable spell at Sundowns, especially considering he signed for them a few months before he turned 34, which took the football fraternity by surprise. 

The midfielder made 16 appearances, scored four goals and contributed with two assists in his first season, proving his doubters wrong. 

But the campaign that has just ended was different as Ralani featured 13 times and he was used as a substitute rather than a key player.  

He leaves with two league titles and it remains to be seen where he settles next in what will likely be his final contract in the topflight.