Walking away from Kaizer Chiefs kick-started my career

It’s like Dithejane all over again.

The Kaizer Chiefs Naturena Village in all its glory. Image: Ernest Makhaya

The grass is often greener on the other side. Just ask two recent Kaizer Chiefs rejects who are thriving away from the Naturena spotlight.

Dithejane is happy he left Kaizer Chiefs

Puso Dithejane and Unathi Mdaka were released owing to misconduct over ball-boy duties in October 2023. Now 20, Dithejane has thrived in the number 10 role for TS Galaxy but can also operate in several roles on their right flank. He was integral to their sixth-place finish last term and this season he’s made 15 league appearances, notching up a goal and an assist.

Via Sunday World:

“I can say that me leaving Chiefs at that point in my career was a blessing in disguise. Because now I am making a name for myself. And I am Puso Dithejane because TS Galaxy took me in and gave me a home after the situation I was in,” he said.

“What has helped me to be the person and player I am today is our chairman, Mr Tim Sukazi. Because when I left Chiefs, he helped me a lot by taking me in and giving me an opportunity at Galaxy.

“The coaches and teammates at the club also contributed to my growth. That’s because they all comforted me after what happened at Chiefs. They told me that I should try and forget about what happened and focus on making a name for myself.

“So, I will forever be grateful to the chairman of TS Galaxy, the coaches, and my teammates.”

Adnan Beganovic TS Galaxy — Following the surprise resignation of coach Sead Ramovic on live TV this week, TS Galaxy boss Tim Sukazi has confirmed his replacement. Image: SABC Sport website

Will Dithejane leave Galaxy?

Speculation around Pusi Dithejane’s future has been rife with former club Chiefs tenuously linked with the versatile midfield schemer who can also play at right back.

Pundits and observers continue to speculate about Dithejene’s future but he’s focusing on Galaxy for now.

“My focus at the moment is on doing well for TS Galaxy. And I am not thinking about going back to Chiefs because I am still contracted to them.

“So, we will see when the transfer requests come. But Mr Sukazi is the one that will handle everything,” he added.

Kaizer Chiefs Dithejane TS Galaxy — Puso Dithejane in action for TS Galaxy against Chippa United. Image: FootballSA

A horrible feeling of déjà vu for Kaizer Chiefs

TS Galaxy head coach Adnan Beganovic is full of praise for young central defender Khulumani Ndamane. The stylish left-footer has already started 15 games this season across all competitions, while the Rockets are currently on a 12-match unbeaten streak. He joined the club in July 2024 from the Kaizer Chiefs youth structures. Meanwhile, the rising stardom of Dithejane has been well-documented.

Is the pressure at Chiefs too great for youngsters to handle?

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