Why Kaizer Chiefs fans should be excited about the arrival of Asenele Velebayi
Got their man Asenele Veebayi has recently completed his move from Cape Town Spurs to Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs on X
Image: Kaizer Chiefs on X
After one of the longest transfer sagas in the history of South African football, Kaizer Chiefs have finally got their man and confirmed the signing of Asenele Velebayi.
While Cape Town Spurs will continue to fight, Velebayi joins Chiefs on a free transfer after the Western Cape side were relegated from the Motsepe Foundation Championship at the end of last season.
His arrival also comes at a time when Chiefs are entering a second season under Nasreddine Nabi, a coach who demands energy, bravery, and creativity in the final third.
Nabi’s sides play with purpose and attacking intent, constantly looking to stretch defences and create overloads in dangerous areas. That philosophy aligns perfectly with Velebayi’s natural game – a willingness to take risks, drive at opponents, and create opportunities out of nothing.
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So, what can the 22-year-old from Philipi in Cape Town offer the Soweto giants? First of all, despite his young age, he is mature, and has been playing professionally for five seasons. He is also comfortable in multiple attacking roles – primarily a right winger, but equally effective on the left or in an advanced midfield role.
Chiefs have been desperate for attacking spark, and Velebayi brings exactly that – a creative, unpredictable presence who can beat defenders, excite the crowd, and unlock stubborn backlines.
His speed, and ability to take on defenders will also come in handy. Over the last couple of seasons, Chiefs have not had unpredictable players who can wow the crowd and leave defenders flat-footed.
Another area where Velebayi thrives is his productivity during games. He is able to put the ball on a plate for strikers to score, something the club have been struggling with of late. And, because he was entrusted with the captain’s armband by his former club, he is also a good leader on the pitch.
This is a signing that Amakhosi’s scouting department got right for once. If he hits the ground running, Velebayi could become a game-changing force on the wing, leaving defenders scrambling and transforming Chiefs’ frontline under Nabi’s fearless, attack-minded approach – finally giving the Amakhosi faithful the unpredictability they’ve been craving.
IOL Sport
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