Latest news with #YusufMaart
The South African
18 minutes ago
- Sport
- The South African
Yusuf Maart speaks for the first time since leaving Kaizer Chiefs
Former Kaizer Chiefs captain Yusuf Maart has penned a heartfelt message to the Amakhosi faithful, thanking them for their unwavering support. The 29-year-old midfielder served as captain for most of his three-year stay at Naturena. Maart was not part of the club's pre-season squad that is currently in the Netherlands. fuelling speculation about his potential exit. 'Firstly, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Chairman and CEO of Sekhukhune United for believing in my talent,' he wrote in the letter shared by his agency P Management. 'Their unwavering support and the leadership opportunities they provided were pivotal in shaping not only my confidence as a player but also as a person. The lessons I've learned will stay with me forever. 'I would also like to thank the Chairman of Kaizer Chiefs and the entire management for entrusting me with the honour of wearing the armband,' Yusuf Maart continued. Leading one of the biggest and most prestigious teams on the continent is something I will always cherish and be proud of. 'To all the coaches who have guided me throughout my journey I am beyond grateful. The knowleage and wistom you've shared has helped me grow in ways that go beyond the game itself. Your influence has shaped me into the player I am today. 'To my teammates, thank you for your your support, and the unforgettable moments we've shared on and off the field. But most importantly. I want to thank the Amakhosi faithful-the fans. Your unwavering belief in us through both the triumphs and the challenges has been a constant source of motivation. Amakhosi for Life,' Maart concluded. 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
2 hours ago
- Sport
- The South African
Chiefs news: Defensive struggles, midfield rebuild, forward hopes
Kaizer Chiefs' defensive performance last season was a major concern that directly impacted their league standing. The team conceded too many goals at crucial moments, often losing points they should have secured. This defensive instability has been a significant focus for coach Nasreddine Nabi as the club prepares for the 2025/26 season. In pre-season training, the coaching staff has emphasised tighter defensive organisation, improved communication among defenders, and better positioning during transitions. To strengthen the backline, Chiefs have been actively scouting for defensive reinforcements. There is also hope that returning players from injury will add depth and competition for starting spots. This increased competition is expected to push players to perform at their best and improve overall defensive solidity. The midfield has undergone a notable reshuffle following the exit of Yusuf Maart, a key figure in Chiefs' engine room. In response, the club is turning to fresh talent and new signings to restore creativity and control in the middle of the park. Players like Mihlali Mayambela, who offers pace and dribbling on the flanks, and young prospect Jaedin Rhodes, have been earmarked to inject dynamism into the midfield. Up front, the club's goal-scoring troubles from last season remain a major concern. While new signing Flavio Silva has shown glimpses of promise, Chiefs continue to pursue a proven striker who can consistently find the back of the net. The front line needs reinforcement if Amakhosi are to mount a genuine title challenge and compete on multiple fronts. The upcoming season will test whether Chiefs can address these weaknesses and build a balanced team capable of turning potential into results. 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
4 hours ago
- Sport
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs transfer news: Midfield shake-up and striker search
The ongoing transfer window has seen Kaizer Chiefs shake up their midfield lineup considerably. With the departure of Yusuf Maart and the reported interest in signing winger Mihlali Mayambela, the club is clearly prioritising a more dynamic and creative midfield. Mayambela, currently plying his trade in Cyprus, is known for his quick feet, dribbling skills, and ability to deliver quality crosses — attributes that could add a new dimension to Chiefs' attack. The midfield rebuild also reflects the club's desire to control matches better and increase goal-scoring opportunities. Alongside Mayambela, young midfielder Jaedin Rhodes is viewed as a promising talent who could develop into a cornerstone of Chiefs' future. Despite the midfield changes, the biggest question mark remains upfront. While new signing Flavio Silva has shown flashes of skill and adaptability, Chiefs still want to strengthen their strike force. The club is reportedly in talks with multiple forwards who fit their style. Finding the right striker will be crucial if Kaizer Chiefs want to avoid the scoring droughts that hampered their previous campaigns. The pressure is mounting on the club's recruitment team to deliver a forward who can make an immediate impact. 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.
IOL News
5 hours ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Confirmed at last! Yusuf Maart officially leaves Kaizer Chiefs for Bundesliga
Kaizer Chiefs have officially confirmed the transfer of captain Yusuf Maart to Austrian club SV Ried for R15 million, marking the end of his three-year tenure with the team, while Angolan international Miguel Inacio is set to succeed him as captain. Picture: Backpagepix The move brings to an end a three-year spell with Chiefs for Maart. Angolan international Miguel Inacio is earmarked to take over the captain's armband. Austrian club SV Ried have signed the 29-year-old for a reported fee of R15 million. Though Maart's pending departure was no secret in SA footballing circles, Chiefs took their time to officially confirm the reports. Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Kaizer Chiefs full statement: 'Midfielder, Yusuf Maart has left Amakhosi to join newly-promoted Austrian Football Bundesliga outfit, SV Ried. The 29-year-old joined Chiefs from Sekhukhune United in July 2022, making his debut away to Royal AM the following month, and featured in 95 matches in the Gold & Black in all competitions, scoring seven times, including the winning goal in last season's Nedbank Cup Final. The erstwhile skipper also weighed in with eight assists in his three seasons at Naturena. The Club appreciates Maart's contribution to Kaizer Chiefs and wishes him well in this new chapter in his career.' This comes after news last week that Chiefs football manager Bobby Motaung had pulled out of the race to sign Percy Tau. Two weeks ago, Chiefs announced the signing of Orlando Pirates duo Thabiso Monyane and Paseka Mako, a significant boost to their player stocks. While switching allegiances among derby rivals is often frowned upon, Chiefs will be left grinning as they added the two star players to their defence for the upcoming Betway Premiership season. The 25-year-old Monyane joins Chiefs after his contract ran out with Pirates at the end of June. Meanwhile, the more experienced 31-year-old Mako also had his contract run out at Pirates at the end of last month. @Michael_Sherman IOL Sport
The Citizen
5 hours ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Maart bids emotional farewell to Chiefs after move to Austria
'This is a huge chance for me to play in Europe,' said Maart. Yusuf Maart has expressed his excitement following his move to SV Ried. The newly promoted Austrian side unveiled the former Kaizer Chiefs captain on Tuesday. 'This is a huge chance for me to play in Europe,' Maart told Reid media. 'I'm looking forward to this new experience. I want to show my best in every game and also be a strong part of the team off the pitch. 'I know that Austrian football is very intense and physical. Ried has a great atmosphere in their stadium, and the fans are known for it.' Maart also penned an emotional letter to his former clubs Sekhukhune United and Chiefs. 'Firstly, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Chairman and CEO of Sekhukhune United for believing in my talent,' read the letter, which was shared by his agency, P Management. 'Their unwavering support and the leadership opportunities they provided were pivotal in shaping not only my confidence as a player but also as a person. The lessons I've learned will stay with me forever. 'I would also like to thank the Chairman of Kaizer Chiefs and the entire management for entrusting me with the honor of wearing the armband. Leading one of the biggest and most prestigious teams on the continent is something I will always cherish and be proud of. 'To all the coaches who have guided me throughout my journey, I am beyond grateful. The knowledge and wisdom you've shared have helped me grow in ways that go beyond the game itself. Your influence has shaped me into the player I am today. 'To my teammates, thank you for your support, and the unforgettable moments we've shared on and off the field. But most importantly. I want to thank the Amakhosi faithful – the fans. Your unwavering belief in us through both the triumphs and the challenges has been a constant source of motivation. 'Amakhosi for Life.'
