Sphephelo Sithole eyes South African return, but let’s find out where he could end up.
Bafana Bafana midfielder Sithole, currently playing in Portugal for Gil Vicente, is reportedly eager to return to South Africa. This potential homecoming has caught the attention of two of the biggest clubs in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), Chiefs and Sundowns.
One remarkable fact about Sithole is that he has never played club football in South Africa. The 25-year-old left the country as a teenager, moving straight from the KwaZulu-Natal Academy to Portugal, where he carved out a successful career. His performances overseas earned him a place in Hugo Broos’ revamped Bafana Bafana squad.
Currently on loan at Gil Vicente from Tondela, Sithole has been making waves in Portuguese football. However, his progress suffered a significant blow when he sustained a severe leg injury during an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan last September.
Chiefs and Sundowns in transfer battle
As PSL giants prepare for the next season, both Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns are exploring ways to strengthen their midfield. A reliable source has confirmed that Chiefs renewed their interest in the Europe-based player despite his injury. However, Sundowns have now entered the race, setting up a potential bidding war between the two heavyweights.
“Yaya wants to come home, this we know,” the source revealed. “If he does return, there are two PSL giants ready to sign him. Chiefs have been tracking him for a while, but Sundowns have now also shown strong interest.”
European clubs still in the mix
Despite the strong interest from South African clubs, Sithole has also been linked with a move to bigger leagues in Europe. According to football presenter Karabo Pasha, top clubs from Germany, Portugal, France, and Italy are monitoring his situation closely.
“Yaya Sithole has been followed and enquired about by clubs in Germany, Portugal, France, and Italy. Monza, Torino, and Rio Ave have been mentioned. He is DEFINITELY leaving his current club,” Pasha confirmed on his official X page.
What’s Next for Sithole?
With both Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns vying for his signature and European clubs still in the picture, Sithole faces a crucial career decision. Will he return home to become a PSL star, or will he take on a new challenge in one of Europe’s top leagues?
One thing is certain – Yaya Sithole’s next move will be a game-changer.
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