Keagan Allen eyes stability and growth after AmaZulu switch

KEEGAN Allen has labelled his move to AmaZulu as a clear step forward in his career, saying the allure of the club’s stature, quality of players, and coaching pedigree made the decision an easy one.

The 25-year-old defender officially joined Usuthu from Richards Bay ahead of the new Betway Premiership season, marking his fourth club in as many years — a stat he was quick to explain away when addressing his nomadic recent past.

“I’m very grateful for where I was at Richards Bay and I’m grateful for the time I spent there, but I think at AmaZulu, the institution, reputation, and coaching speak for themselves,” Allen said.

“Being able to be around players of a certain standard like Bongs (Bongani Zungu) and (Tariq) Fielies and being able to learn from them is not an opportunity you can always say no to, so I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”

Allen is a product of the Mamelodi Sundowns academy, but has seen his career take a winding route in recent seasons. 

After a spell at the University of Pretoria in 2022, he turned out for Moroka Swallows and then SuperSport United, before linking up with the Natal Rich Boyz last season.

Despite the frequent club changes, the versatile defender pushed back on the idea that he’s struggled to settle.

“It’s a bit of an unfair narrative because if you look at it, two of the clubs I played for don’t exist anymore, so a lot of that has been down to things out of my control,” he explained.

“In those situations you have to be able to sort yourself out as well, but yes it has been a few clubs in a few years — but I absolutely could not control any of that.”

While the off-field instability played its part, Allen made it clear that on-field ambition also guided his latest switch, especially the chance to work under Arthur Zwane.

“He was massive. I played a lot against his teams throughout the years and they’re always difficult teams to play,” Allen said of the former Kaizer Chiefs mentor.

“His style of play, the ideas and what he wants and expects from a player is very demanding but is also very fair, so it was definitely a big factor in me deciding to come here.”

AmaZulu have undergone a significant reshuffle ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with an emphasis on experienced campaigners and tactical clarity under Zwane. 

Allen is expected to compete for a place in defence alongside seasoned heads, including Zungu and Fielies, with the former Richards Bay man hoping this is finally the club where he finds long-term stability and growth.

For Allen, Usuthu represents more than just another chapter — it’s a chance to rebuild and reach new heights in the company of proven professionals.