Tshabalala shares same sentiments with Mosimane on SA players
"I was very specific in my dream."
Kaizer Chiefs legend Siphiwe Tshabalala, long seen as the soft-spoken idol, has said he shares the same sentiments with Al Ahli coach Pitso Mosimane on SA players.
Tshabalala, who has been clubless since parting ways with AmaZulu in 2021, believes he has ‘ticked all the boxes’ to be considered a successful player in SA.
From donning the Gold and Black colours of Chiefs to representing SA at the international level and playing overseas, Tshabalala is content with his achievements on the field of play.
Nonetheless, Tshabalala highlighted a significant concern about SA players, echoing Mosimane’s words that PSL stars need to have a change of mindset to reach greater heights.
Tshabalala, like Mosimane, strongly believes that SA players are extremely talented but don’t know their worth.
The left-footed star has urged DStv Premiership players to leave their comfort zones and ply their trade overseas.
Tshabalala says playing in the PSL shouldn’t be the ultimate goal but rather a stepping stone to competing in the best leagues in the world.
SHABBA ON THE IMPORTANCE OF PLAYING ABROAD
“As footballers, we have dreams,” said Tshabalala. “And the big dream is to play football at the highest level, represent your country, and play abroad, where the best players ply their trade.
“Many have achieved their dreams. And I want to believe that I’ve ticked all the boxes. I was very specific in my dream. and wanted to be a professional footballer. I wanted to play for Kaizer Chiefs and be the best,” he added.
However, Tshabalala only sealed an overseas move eight years after scoring the famous goal in Bafana’s 2010 FIFA World Cup opener on home soil.
He had penned a two-year deal with Turkish Super Lig side BB Erzurumspor after 11 years at Amakhosi.
“I wanted to represent my country and also play abroad. I’m grateful that I achieved that and also grateful for the impact that I’ve made on the lives that I have touched,” he added.
“But I do share the same sentiments with the coach [Mosimane] that playing in the PSL is good playing professional football at home is good, but it’s not the ultimate.
‘PLAY ABROAD AND SEE THE WORLD’
“There are bigger challenges, opportunities and platforms as well that also will test how good you are as a player.
“And the more you compete at the highest level, it’s the more you learn as well you know about how things are done and as to where you are in terms of progress as an individual. Also, you get to share the experience as well locally.
“So, I encourage players to play abroad, go and see the world, learn and have an impact. Come back and impart that knowledge.
“When we have good players playing abroad at the highest level, is it an investment for our country. That will also help our country to grow and also, you know, perform at the highest level and be consistent.”
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