Kaizer Chiefs fans cheer for their team during a game against Cape Town City at the Cape Town Stadium Royce Malatji could be the next youngster in line to make waves at Kaizer Chiefs which has set tongues wagging among AmaKhosi fans. Photo: Ayanda Ndamane/Indpendent Media
It’s not uncommon this season to see a teenager plying his trade for Kaizer Chiefs, and the latest set to make waves in SA soccer is 16-year-old Royce Malatji.
The 18-year-old Mfundo Vilakazi has already made headlines under new coach Nasreddine Nabi.
Last month, Vilakazi scored a stunning winner against Marumo Gallants with 11 minutes remaining in their Betway Premiership clash, as Chiefs won their opening game of the season for the first time since their 2019/2020 campaign.
Now it seems Chiefs have an even younger player rising up through their ranks.
Glamour Boys' cryotherapy session #Amakhosi4Life pic.twitter.com/CxxmrMaDNZ
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“He is just 16-years-old but he is very good. He can play at right back, central defence, right wing or even as a central midfielder. It doesn’t matter where he plays – he is just good!,” Soccer Laduma reported.
“That’s why both technical teams have agreed that he joins the senior team. He has a great future ahead of him and they want to nurture him in the right environment,” they added.
The big problem with blooding players at such a young age is their media exposure which could affect their performances and mental health.
Nabi has made it his mission to ensure these young players have the best support team.
Speaking about Vilakazi after the Gallants match, Nabi said: “Vilakazi is a young boy, he has a big talent and I do protect him. I protect him from the media,” said Nabi.
“He’s a big talent in South Africa, I love him, so I need to protect him.”
Chiefs are next in action against on Saturday in the Telkom Knockout against SuperSport United in Polokwane on Saturday. Kick-off is at 8pm.