Former Kaizer Chiefs prospect Xolani ‘Touch’ Mabaso has opened up about his difficult spell at Naturena.
The former midfielder believes immaturity played a major role during his time with the Soweto giants.
Mabaso joined Chiefs as a promising youngster surrounded by some of the country’s biggest football names.
However, the former prospect admits that the environment affected his mindset.
Instead of pushing harder for regular opportunities, Mabaso expected his talent to earn him chances.
That approach eventually left him frustrated and questioning his position within the squad.
Mabaso admits he took opportunities for granted
Mabaso believes he became complacent while playing alongside established stars at Kaizer Chiefs.
The former player explained that being part of such a strong squad changed his expectations.
“I would like to believe so, that there was that element of lacking here and there at times. As footballers, sometimes we can be ignorant. Chiefs had the cream of the crop in their team at the time, and just by being part of the group, I expected things to just happen for me,” Mabaso told SL.
However, those opportunities did not arrive as quickly as Mabaso expected.
Instead, he began questioning why he remained outside the starting lineup.
He now believes he should have responded by working harder and proving himself.
“When that didn’t happen, I started asking myself questions as to why I wasn’t playing instead of working harder to show that I deserved to play,” he added.
Mabaso’s comments highlight the challenges young players can face at major clubs.
Big-name teammates can provide valuable experience, but competition remains intense.
Consequently, talented youngsters must continue working to earn their opportunities.
Mabaso reflects on his Chiefs disappointment
Mabaso’s frustration eventually affected his happiness at the club.
He admits that his mindset also influenced his performances on the pitch.
“But that’s life, and some things we can’t change. Towards the end of my time with Chiefs, I wasn’t happy, and once you are not happy, you can hardly achieve anything, not just in football but in life. My situation affected my performance levels, and that was it. Disappointing,” Mabaso concluded.
Mabaso has not played professionally since leaving Mbombela United in 2018.
Now 40, he can look back on his career with the benefit of experience.
His story also offers a lesson for young players chasing opportunities at South Africa’s biggest clubs.
Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs are preparing for their next important fixture.
Chiefs prepare for Stellenbosch challenge
Kaizer Chiefs are currently managing several injury concerns within their squad.
However, the club has received encouraging updates on several players.
Striker Flavio Silva has returned to training after his injury setback.
Khanyisa Mayo has also recovered following a hernia operation.
Young winger Langelihle Phili is another player approaching a return.
The 21-year-old suffered a serious ankle injury during training in late August.
Phili could return when Chiefs host Stellenbosch on Tuesday, October 13.
The match is scheduled to begin at 19:30.
Chiefs will hope their returning players can strengthen the squad for the upcoming challenge.
The post Mabaso reveals what went wrong at Kaizer Chiefs appeared first on iHarare News.
