Harambee Stars defender Brian Mandela will have to look for a new club yet again after his release from Premier Soccer League side Stellenbosch FC was confirmed.
Harambee Stars defender Brian Onyango Mandela has finally been released by South African club Stellenbosch FC just days after it emerged that his deal will not be extended.
Mandela joined Stellenbosch on a one-year deal before the start of last season, with the club having an option to extend it for a similar period, but after just eight appearances in all competitions, he has been deemed surplus to requirements.
Stellenbosch had another stellar season, finishing third in the Premier Soccer League for a second straight season, reaching a historic CAF Champions League semi-final as well as the MTN8 final but Mandela played a very little part in their success.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
)
14:45 - 21.06.2025
Brian Mandela: Why Harambee Stars Defender Faces Uncertain Future in South Africa
Harambee Stars defender Brian Mandela is staring at the possibility of looking for a new club just one year after landing a major deal with a top South African side.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns defender managed four league games, starting three, two in the Confederation Cup, one MTN8 and another one in the Carling knockout and the Cape Town-based side have decided to cut ties with the 30-year-old which will leave him looking for a new club once again.
What Has Stellenbosch Said About Mandela?
)
“Despite the brevity of his stay with the Maroons, Onyango’s leadership and work ethic made him an influential figure in the dressing room and earned him a nomination for the 2024-25 SFC Sportsman of the Season award. Everyone at Stellenbosch FC would like to thank Brian for his service to the club and wish him well as he embarks on the next chapter of his career,” Stellenbosch said in a statement confirming Mandela’s departure.
Signing for Stellenbosch was, however, a great move for Mandela as it earned him a return to the Harambee Stars squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in March, starting the 3-3 draw against The Gambia, and he was also part of the team that played Chad in two friendly matches in early June.
)
17:30 - 14.06.2025
Benni McCarthy on How Mandela, Lenkupae and Ex-Newcastle Star Wilson Prepped Harambee Stars Locals for CHAN 2024
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has credited Brian Mandela, William Lenkupae, and Adam Wilson for their leadership and impact during Kenya’s international break.
The former Posta Rangers, Tusker FC and Maritzburg United defender will now begin a hunt for a new club which will offer him regular gametime as he looks to retain his spot in the national team.