Banyana Banyana Captain Refiloe Jane has opened up about her departure from Italian side Sassuolo.
The Soweto-born midfielder says her contract with the Europeans came to end and she decided against renewing it as she is looking for a new challenge elsewhere.
Jane joined the club two years ago but was on the sidelines for long periods this season after an injury sustained at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The former TUT Ladies, VUT Ladies and Sundowns Ladies player admits the injury left her frustrated.
Previously on the books of Italian giants AC Milan for three seasons, Jane joined Sassuolo in 2022 after leading Banyana Banyana to gold in the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations – their maiden continental title.
She has also played club football in Australia alongside Rhoda Mulaudzi of Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies.
Jane only made her return to Banyana Banyana in February this year after a six-month layoff. Jane captained the African Champions in the two-legged qualifiers against Nigeria but missed out on qualifications for the Olympics.
CentreCircle.online spoke to Jane, who said she was listening to offers while resting at home.
How would you describe your 2023/24 season at club level?
It was a good season for the team, we finished fourth. Even though we didn’t start so well, we managed to push through and fought to the end, getting a good position. We played well against some top experienced teams, and we were able to hold our own.”
It appears the World Cup injury did not help as you spent a long time on the sidelines – how did that make you feel?
It was a frustrating period because the pain was always there through training and games. It was difficult to take time away from the team because the team valued my presence on and off the field, hence I ended up working through the pain and discomfort. Some games it was better than others and at times it was just unbearable hence I would miss matches or play less minutes.
Was it at that point that you made the decision to leave the club
No, I didn’t leave because of the injury, my two-year contract came to an end.
What are the exact reasons for leaving Sassuolo?
The contract has ended, and I am looking for a challenge elsewhere, I feel I’ve played my part, grew as a player, as an individual and also with the team.
Next move? There are talks that you may be considering Mexico. Any truth in that?
At the moment I am taking time to rest since it’s off season. Spending time with family because I never get time to spend with them and my dad was in hospital for some time, so being at home now resting and recharging before the next move is a priority at the moment. A decision will be made in the near future.
Banyana Banyana faced Senegal without some regulars and did well – is it a bother to you?
No, it’s not a bother to me. It’s good for the players that got a chance to represent the country and showcase their talent.
And what next for the national team after failing to qualify for the Olympics?
There’s still WAFCON that the team needs to be defend, even though dates are not confirmed, also friendly matches and future preparations.
How happy were you to see your compatriot and friend, Jermaine lifting a league trophy in Mexico? And what message does it send to other players?
It was a great feeling seeing skipper lifting the trophy, she deserves it with her team, one of the most hard working and dedicated players I know. It’s a motivation for the other players to say that it’s possible. No matter where you are.
South Africa is not exporting as many players as it used to – what could be the challenge?
It’s a personal decision I think and also opportunity based. Also goes with representation in terms of agents, chances of you going abroad with a good agent are high than when you don’t have one. Other thing could be experience, you are at an advantage going overseas with international experience in your hand than not. Whether it’s senior national team or from junior national team. I think also some local teams take good care of the players in terms of finances and there’s better opportunities here in terms of endorsement/sponsorship/campaigns for one to make a living.
Lastly, in terms of your injuries – are you over them now, fit and raring to go?
Yes, I am good and raring to go.
By Matlhomola Morake
