Erick Mathoho has penned an emotional goodbye message to Kaizer Chiefs following his exit from the club after 11 years of service.
He is the first player who has parted ways with Amakhosi after the end of the 2022/23 DStv Premiership season. Mathoho, who joined Chiefs in 2012 from Bloemfontein Celtic, will see his contract coming to an end on 30 June. The club decided against renewing it.
To honour the 33-year-old, the Soweto giants held a farewell ceremony in Naturena on Thursday. The players and almost all the club’s staff came to say their goodbyes.
In his letter, he expressed his gratitude to the Motaung family, his teammates and the Amakhosi faithful.
ERIC MATHOHO PENS EMOTIONAL GOODBYE MESSAGE TO CHIEFS
“Firstly, I’d like to thank my chairman (Dr Motaung) for the opportunity to play for one of the biggest team in Africa, not only the country,” Mathoho wrote on his Instagram account.
“You and the entire family have welcomed me with open arms. You treated me as one of your own throughout our entire journey.
“In those 11 years, we shared some great memories and moments together. To all Kaizer Chiefs supporters, I’d like to thank you for the support and kindness you’ve shown towards me through thick and thin, both on and off the pitch.
“To all my teammates I’d like to thank you for the moments we shared on the pitch”
Mathoho featured 267 times in the Gold and Black shirt and scored 22 goals. He won two league trophies, Nedbank Cup and MTN8.
Meanwhile, the Thohoyandou-born received 34 Bafana Bafana call-ups during his spell with Amakhosi.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR TOWER?
With the June transfer window set to open, the veteran defender will be up for grabs as a free agent. With his years of experience, his services are still fit for use.
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