Kaizer Chiefshave recently parted ways with one of their defenders, in what came as a shock for most.
Last week, Chiefs announced the departure of Botswana international defender Thatayoane Ditlhokwe to Libyan giants Al-Ittihad.
This move caught many Chiefs fans off guard, as the Zebra’s captain was starting to find his feet this season. He initially started the campaign seemingly not in the plans of new coach Nasreddine Nabi. One of the first signings the Tunisian coach sanctioned was that of left centre-back Rushwin Dortley. That was seemingly a message to Ditlhokwe, who had an injury ravaged first season at the club.
Ditlhokwe left Chiefs for Al-Ittihad
Even when he did play, Chiefs fans were left unconvinced by his performances. At the turn of the year, however, Ditlhokwe finally got his chance under Nabi. But this came in his secondary position of left-back. He did well there in games against Orlando Pirates, Stellenbosch FC twice and AmaZulu. Just when the player was looked to have established himself, the transfer to Al-Ittihad was announced.
Now according to The Citizen, Ditlhokwe left Chiefs because he was unhappy at his playing situation.
Why he opted to leave
“The feeling is that he (Ditlhokwe) was not happy with not being a regular. He also felt that he didn’t have the trust of the new (Chiefs) technical team. He was not even played in his preferred position sometimes, which is part of the reason he wasn’t happy. Remember when the season started, he was not playing at all, and I told you that a loan would be an option in January. I think this move makes sense for everyone because he’s an important player for Botswana, and they will need him in top form for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco later this year.” Said a source lose to the player to the same publication.
Correct call from player and club?
Chiefs fans, was it the right move for the club to part ways with Ditlhokwe? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab. Or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news
