Mthethwa, introduced as one of the club's new signings during a recent press conference, expressed confidence in his new team's prospects.

Despite joining a team that narrowly escaped relegation through the PSL promotional playoffs, the 31-year-old midfielder was optimistic about the club's future. "Looking at the structure they have implemented now, I don't see ourselves fighting for relegation," Mthethwa stated.

"We have good signings, and I'm here to work and ensure the team doesn't go where it was before. Even last season, they had good players; we just have to work hard to achieve our objective."

Having spent five seasons with Moroka Swallows before their Premiership status was sold to Marumo Gallants FC, Mthethwa shared the difficulties surrounding his departure from the Birds. "The move to Richards Bay, honestly speaking, was not an easy one for me, because I had a contract with Swallows, so I was supposed to take that contract to Marumo," he explained.

"Richards Bay were interested in my services and were calling me. At first, I didn't entertain it because it was not announced then that Swallows were sold."

Mthethwa's decision to join Richards Bay was influenced by his agent, Jazzman Mahlakgane, who convinced him it was the right move. "My agent called me and said he was talking with teams and he said this was the right move for me.

"I needed a fresh start away from Gauteng, so I decided to come here... I said, let me go and have a fresh start in a different environment."

His tenure at Swallows ended on a sour note due to financial difficulties, and Mthethwa is relieved to join Richards Bay, where financial stability is less of a concern. "Coming here is a good thing for me and I'm really happy to be here.

"It's a good thing that it happened, and as much as it hurts to see Swallows go, for a player when he retires and he has nothing, people talk and say, we finished all our investments."

With a fresh start and a renewed sense of purpose, Mthethwa is ready to contribute to Richards Bay's success and is confident in the team's ability to climb the ranks in the new season.

Tlakusani Mthethwa eyes top eight finish with Richards Bay