Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Neo Maema says now is not the time to talk about his future as they head for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in East Africa.
Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya are hosting the continental showpiece that kicks off this weekend and Maema is likely to remain there for the upcoming season, with Simba SC favourites to land his signature for a season-long loan.
Siwelele were also keen on his services, as part of a three-player loan with Keagan Johannes and Terrence Mashego said to have been considered, which now, all seems unlikely.
“No comment on that [my club future], thank you,” Maema said after the warm-up fixture against Angola at Lucas Moripe on Tuesday afternoon.
“I just want to focus on the tournament and make sure we’re in a good position for the tournament, that’s what I’m thinking of now…”
Maema captained the side to qualification with two-legged wins over Egypt and Malawi to qualify for the tournament, which is for domestic-based players for each country – for the first time in over a decade.
He looks set to retain the leadership role under head coach Molefi Ntseki and he admits it’s something he’s not going to take lightly.
“It’s an honour and privilege to represent the country and I feel like this is a huge one because, it’s been 12 years since we represented the country at CHAN, so I think we should just be excited as a group of players and also myself, individually,” he said.
“I’m happy to lead the team to such a big competition, we’re honoured and privileged to be in such a position. It’s a proud moment – it’s a massive achievement to be in this position and excitement, we need to put the national team in a position to be ready for the tournament.
