Johannesburg - Max Tshabalala, the Bloemfontein Celtic owner who sensationally confirmed his intent to sell the Premier League outfit following fan violence at the weekend, would not disclose the identity of two interested buyers on Monday, but revealed he had discussed his decision with Petrus Molemela, the club’s lifetime president.
As surprising as his remarks were – made the morning after the match – the Celtic chairman suggested he had already informed Molemela of his wish to see a change in ownership.
Former owner Molemela sold his shares to Jimmy Augousti in 2001, but remained an adviser.
“My heart is very heavy, but for me to take a decision without Mr Molemela would be a betrayal to the legacy of this team,” said Tshabalala. “He is not happy. I am not happy, but I have analysed the situation and there are clearly some supporters who still don’t believe I own the team. I have never made blood money, where I benefit from the blood of other people. When I saw children bleeding and women injured and a heritage site like Orlando Stadium being vandalised, the answers (on what to do) came immediately.
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There are two offers, but unfortunately they are from people outside of Mangaung, which is my first preference because the club has a rich history here.”
The Star