This is a time I really hate in football, especially in South Africa. You find teams had all the time to conclude deals with players and not leave it to the last minute, but it’s always the case. Sometimes, players end up getting into contracts with other teams while they still have a few months left. I’ve seen players then treated badly by owners—some being sent to train with the academy or even alone, as the bosses feel they no longer have the club’s interest at heart.

The clock is ticking, and for some players, this January transfer window feels like the calm before a storm. Contracts expiring in six months. Futures dangling in uncertainty. Careers teetering between the familiar and the unknown. This is the fascinating, high-stakes world of players in the last stretch of their deals—a point where loyalty, ambition, and pragmatism collide.

For those who don’t know, FIFA’s Article 18.3 grants players in their final six months the freedom to negotiate with other clubs for a potential move come season’s end. This ruling, often referred to as the “Bosman Ruling,” was created to level the playing field for players. It gives them control over their destinies, empowering them to secure deals without interference from their current clubs. However, while this rule liberates players, it also leaves clubs vulnerable to losing stars for nothing—turning these situations into a nerve-wracking game of chess.

For fans, this period invites endless speculation and debate. Who stays? Who goes? Who’s still got more to give? In my opinion, these decisions not only shape careers but also ripple through entire squads, impacting team dynamics and strategies. With all this in mind, I’ve taken a closer look at some of the most intriguing names in South African football whose contracts are winding down.

With this dynamic in mind, I’ve assembled a lineup of players whose contracts are expiring and assessed their futures, including whether they should renew or seek greener pastures. These athletes are not just statistics but stories of ambition, resilience, and potential.

The XI: Evaluating Contract Decisions

1. Jody February (Goalkeeper)

• Profile: Joined Mamelodi Sundowns in 2019 and has played just four games. The stiff competition from Denis Onyango, Kennedy Mweene, and Ronwen Williams has limited his opportunities. Loan spells at AmaZulu and Moroka Swallows showcased his talent but not consistently enough.

• Verdict: Renew – As a backup to Ronwen Williams, February still has value, especially if he focuses on development.

2. Reeve Frosler (Right Back)

• Profile: The 27-year-old has made 149 appearances for Kaizer Chiefs since joining from Bidvest Wits. A consistent and dependable presence in the squad.

• Verdict: Renew – Chiefs should hold on to Frosler, as experienced fullbacks are always in demand.

3. Dove Edmilson (Left Back)

• Profile: The 30-year-old Mozambican defender has made 43 appearances and scored two goals for Kaizer Chiefs. He has been sidelined with an injury since preseason but is now back in training.

• Verdict: Renew – With his return to fitness, Dove remains a solid option in defense.

4. Rushine De Reuck (Center Back)

• Profile: Aged 29, he joined Sundowns in 2021 from Maritzburg United. This season, he has only featured in six games.

• Verdict: Release – De Reuck needs regular playing time to remain in contention for Bafana Bafana ahead of AFCON 2024.

5. Thabo Moloisane (Center Back)

• Profile: The 25-year-old joined TS Galaxy in 2023 and has shown promise. His recent captaincy against RS Berkane indicates the club’s faith in him.

• Verdict: Renew – With leadership qualities and potential, Moloisane is a long-term asset for Stellenbosch

6. Sphelele Mkhulise (Midfielder)

• Profile: A talented 28-year-old midfielder with the ability to dictate the tempo of a game. Unfortunately, injuries and stiff competition at Sundowns have stunted his growth.

• Verdict: Release – A move to a club like Kaizer Chiefs could help Mkhulise rediscover his best form and establish himself.

7. Sipho Mbule (Midfielder)

• Profile: At 26, Mbule is on loan at Sekhukhune United from Sundowns. While showing glimpses of his talent, his stint at Sundowns hasn’t gone as planned.

• Verdict: Release – Staying at Sekhukhune or finding another club will allow him to rebuild his career.

8. Makhehleni Makhaula (Midfielder)

• Profile: A 35-year-old midfield workhorse for Orlando Pirates. His leadership and presence have helped young players like Thalente Mbatha and Relebohile Mofokeng excel.

• Verdict: Renew – His experience and consistency remain invaluable to the team.

9. Themba Zwane (Attacking Midfielder)

• Profile: The 35-year-old Sundowns legend has been with the club since 2011. Limited to just five appearances this season due to injury, he remains a fan favorite.

• Verdict: Renew – Zwane’s legacy at the club and his ability to deliver in key moments warrant another contract.

10. Peter Shalulile (Striker)

• Profile: The Namibian forward has been prolific since joining Sundowns in 2020, scoring 96 goals in 182 games.

• Verdict: Release – A move overseas would be the logical next step for a player of Shalulile’s caliber and ambition.

11. Vincent Pule (Winger)

• Profile: Recently signed a one-year deal with Gavin Hunt’s SuperSport United after leaving Orlando Pirates. He has had an impressive start to the season.

• Verdict: Renew – Pule’s form proves he is still a valuable

For players, this period is a chance to redefine their trajectory, reclaim lost momentum, or secure long-term stability. For clubs, it’s an opportunity to plan strategically, balancing short-term needs with future aspirations. Ultimately, these decisions reflect the delicate balance between loyalty, ambition, and practicality that defines modern football.

In the end, whether it’s the end of the road or a new beginning, one thing is clear: these moments shape not only the careers of individuals but also the identity and success of the teams they represent. Football, at its core, remains a sport where change is inevitable and growth is constant.