Aden McCarthy, the promising young defender and son of Kaizer Chiefs legend Fabian McCarthy, recently had a trial with Sheriff Tiraspol in Moldova.
The South African youth international left the country last month to be assessed by Moldova’s top-tier outfit.
The Super Liga club was reportedly keen on securing McCarthy on loan until the end of the year, but the deal reportedly fell through due to undisclosed reasons.
McCarthy is now set to return to South Africa, eager to make his mark at Chiefs under the guidance of new coach Nasreddine Nabi.
Amakhosi on Sunday announced an injury to Edmilson Dove, who plays left centre-back and fullback, just like 20-year-old McCarthy.
Newly signed left-back Bongani Sam was also photographed leaving Turkey in a moon boot, similar to Dove, raising concerns about an injury that could sideline him for the beginning of the season.
That, coupled with the recent departures of Njabulo Ngcobo and Sifiso Hlanti, and the tragic passing of Luke Fleurs, means opportunities have opened up in Chiefs’ defence, particularly at left-back – a position McCarthy is capable of filling.
Despite signing a professional contract with the club in 2022, McCarthy is yet to make his senior debut for the Glamour Boys. However, his impressive performances in the DStv Diski Challenge for the reserve side earned him the senior team promotion.
IS ADEN MCCARTHY’S RETURN A TIMELY BOOST?
The return of McCarthy could be a timely boost for Chiefs with Sam and Dove’s injury. With his talent, work ethic and lineage, McCarthy would be hoping to impress Nabi.
Amakhosi are currently in Turkey where they are preparing for the new season. The inclusion of several youth prospects in the Soweto giants’ travelling squad to Turkey underscores the new technical team’s emphasis on developing young talent.
They return to South Africa on 24 July 2024. It is yet to be confirmed whether McCarthy has already returned to Johannesburg or will rejoin the team in Turkey before their return. The club’s pre-season culminates in a clash against Young Africans in the Toyota Cup.
The Toyota Cup showdown is set for July 28th at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
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