Royal AM (also known as "Thwihli Thwahla") is a South African football club based in Pietermaritzburg that plays in the Premiership.
History
Originally, the club was called Kings United, before changing its name to Real Kings.[2]
In 2019, Shauwn Mkhize and her son Andile Mpisane purchased Real Kings, renaming it Royal AM.[3]
They bought their right to play in the top tier after purchasing the Premiership license from Bloemfontein Celtic in August 2021.[4][5]
The club received a transfer ban from FIFA effective 3 July 2023 after unlawfully terminating the contract of Samir Nurkovic and failing to pay the outstanding amount of R12 million.[6]
Sponsorship controversy
In August 2023, the heavily-indebted Msunduzi Local Municipality stated that it was going ahead with a R27 million sponsorship three-year sponsorship of Royal AM.[7][8]
Financial problems
In January 2025, the South African Revenue Service issued a preservation order against the club over unpaid tax debts by owner Shauwn Mkhize. In addition, players did not receive their December 2024 salaries, and the club's fixture was postponed by the league's governing body, the PSL.[9]
Current squad
As of 16 August 2024
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
