Relegated Baroka FC are planning a comeback to the National Football Division.
Baroka FC is currently preparing for a squad rebuild under a three-year plan following their relegation from the Motsepe Foundation Championship to the ABC Motsepe League.
Recently, the club hosted a pre-season tournament at the Mafori Mphahlele Stadium to scout new talent as they aim to return to professional football.
Chairman Khurishi Mphahlele has set a three-year timeline to return the club to professional status, implementing a strict focus on rebuilding with under-21 players.
During the transfers window period, winger Kabelo Kgositsile officially completed his move to Betway Premiership champions, Orlando Pirates after a loan spell, while defender Ethen Sampson signed a two-year contract extension with Baroka.
Dan Malesela was suspended earlier in the campaign due to poor results, forcing the technical team to make several shifts and adjustments to the squad.
Tension started brewing when players embarked on protest strike over delayed salaries in May.
Mphahlele sent a warning, calling it a breach of contract and said the delay was due to cashflow issues.
Players refused to train over unpaid salaries.
Mphahlele said some players don’t want to go to the amateur league with the team.
Recent reports suggest that Baroka are reportedly exploring a quick return to professional football by buying an NFD status from a club facing financial difficulties.
Mphahlele has also publicly ruled out buying a PSL status, further saying he is against the practice.
“We are going to focus on Under-21 players for the future. Salary levels will be researched to match what other teams in that league pay,” says Mphahlele.
He maintains that Baroka don’t want to spend too long in the amateur league and plan to “bounce back” quickly.