Bafana defender Xulu signs for SuperSport United

SuperSport United have signed experienced Bafana Bafana defender Siyanda Xulu on a two-year deal, the club confirmed on Friday.

The 31-year-old centre-back spent last season in Azerbaijan at Turan, but was urged to return to the DStv Premiership by national team coach Hugo Broos, and will boost his chance of being a part of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers having done so.

Xulu previously played for SuperSport’s local rivals Mamelodi Sundowns, as well as Kaizer Chiefs and Maritzburg United, and also had a spells in Russia and Israel.

SuperSport United FC is excited to announce the signature of Bafana Bafana international defender Siyanda Xulu on a two-year deal with an option to renew. ????#MatsatsantsaUnified pic.twitter.com/GbLt4cB87n

— SuperSport United FC (@SuperSportFC) July 28, 2023

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to play here at home, it is one thing I needed at this point at time,” Xulu said. “When you get to this age the most important thing is stability. I am very excited to join the club.”

SuperSport coach Gavin Hunt is delighted with the signing, who he calls a “good touch character”.

“He is someone who can fit in at left centre-back, which gives us another option that and good experience. I have known him for a long time as a player, he can help with the younger players we have got,” Hunt said.

“We have four good centre-backs in place and that gives us strength in depth in what is a busy season with a lot of fixtures. He is quick, tough and a good defender.”

Xulu could debut for SuperSport when they open their DStv Premiership season at home to Richards Bay on 5 August.