Fabian McCarthy believes son Aden is primed for first team action at Kaizer Chiefs
Ready for the first team football? Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Fabian McCarthy believes his son Aden is ready to make the step up to the first team after an impressive DStv Diski Challenge campaign, where he captained the club to the title. Photo: Phakamisa Lensman/BackpagePix
Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Fabian McCarthy says his son Aden is ready to make the step up to the first team after a stellar season for the club's DStv Diski Challenge side.
The 21-year-old McCarthy, a central defender like his father, played a key role as Kaizer Chiefs' youngsters won the DDC title comfortably. His form for his club also saw him included in the Bafana Bafana B side as they qualified for the African Nations Championships (CHAN).
His impressive form for club and country is the reason his father now believes the youngster can make the step up to Nasreddine Nabi's first team.
However, McCarthy acknowledged that because of Chiefs' struggles over the last season, it was difficult for the coach to give opportunities to young players like Orlando Pirates have done over the last two seasons.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


The South African
39 minutes ago
- The South African
BREAKING: Orlando Pirates release TWO defensive stars!
Orlando Pirates have officially released both Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane, the club said in a statement. Mako and Monyane were among the longest serving members of the current Pirates squad. The news of Monyane's departure doesn't come as a shock after it emerged on Friday that he had been offered to Kaizer Chiefs. For Mako, this is a bit surprising given the fact that he was considered one of the senior members of the Pirates squad. However, looking at their contributions last season, the defensive duo of Mako and Monyane did not do enough. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.


The South African
an hour ago
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs target prolific lower league striker amid transfer race
Kaizer Chiefs have stepped up their pursuit of one of the lower divisions' most exciting forwards, as they look to sharpen their attacking arsenal ahead of the new Betway Premiership season. A source has confirmed that Amakhosi are closely monitoring Thapelo Matlhoko, the prolific striker from Kruger United. Who has become a hot property following a string of standout performances, as per Soccer Laduma . Chiefs aren't alone in the chase, but they appear to be in the driving seat. 'Now Kaizer Chiefs are also interested in him. But let's see where he will go,' a source close to the situation said. Matlhoko first caught the eye of scouts during the ABC Motsepe League playoffs, where his finishing instincts and physical presence turned heads. Kaizer Chiefs have reportedly kept tabs on him ever since. According to the source, Marumo Gallants, Golden Arrows, and two other unnamed Betway Premiership teams have also shown interest. However, it's Chiefs who seem most determined to secure his signature. 'As much as Chiefs have enquired about him, so has Golden Arrows and two other Betway Premiership sides. But the scouts at Marumo Gallants know him better and that gives them a better chance of signing him,' the source revealed. Matlhoko's current club, Kruger United, managed to retain him last season despite previous attempts from clubs like Gallants to lure him away. This time, though, the level of interest has escalated, and Kaizer Chiefs are well-positioned to convince the player to take the next step in his career. 'It's not the first time they have shown interest in him. During the ABC Motsepe playoffs last season they wanted him but Kruger United kept him at least for another season,' said a source. With Chiefs rebuilding under pressure and seeking fresh attacking options, Matlhoko could emerge as a low-risk, high-reward addition. Will Matlhoko be able to handle the pressure at Kaizer Chiefs? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.


The South African
2 hours ago
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs close to snapping up SuperSport United star
Kaizer Chiefs are on the brink of securing the signature of exciting SuperSport United left-back Aphiwe Baliti, as they begin a full-scale squad rebuild ahead of the 2025/2026 season. After another underwhelming league campaign, despite lifting the Nedbank Cup, the Soweto giants are wasting no time reshaping their team for a stronger push next term. Amakhosi's failure to clinch a top eight finish in the Betway Premiership for a second consecutive year, and with it, another absence from the MTN8, has triggered urgent calls for sweeping changes. New head coach Nasreddine Nabi, brought in to steer the club in a new direction, appears ready to revamp key areas of the squad. While attacking reinforcements remain a priority. The club is equally focused on tightening up its defence, particularly at left-back, where options are dwindling. Kaizer Chiefs currently have several left-sided defensive options, including Bradley Cross, Edmilson Dove, Happy Mashiane, and Bongani Sam. However, most of these names could be on their way out. That potential triple departure has placed left-back high on Chiefs' transfer wishlist. With 23-year-old Aphiwe Baliti emerging as a top target. Baliti enjoyed a breakout campaign with SuperSport United, featuring 18 times across all competitions in 2024/2025. His performances, marked by blistering pace, high work rate, and calmness on the ball, have caught the eye of Chiefs' scouts. Sources close to the player's camp have revealed that 'a deal is almost done'. Suggesting that the youngster is on the verge of completing a switch to Naturena. Will Aphiwe Baliti be a good addition to Kaizer Chiefs? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.