SuperSport United CEO Stan Matthews has revealed the reasons behind the club’s failed attempt to sign former Kaizer Chiefs and Montpellier midfielder Keagan Dolly.
The experienced playmaker, whose contract with Chiefs expired at the end of June 2024, had been heavily linked with a move to SuperSport, as previously reported by FARPost.
Dolly, who left Amakhosi after a three-season stint marked by injury setbacks, had made 67 appearances, scoring 14 goals and providing 11 assists for the club. The midfielder had risen to prominence during his time at Ajax Cape Town before successful stints at Mamelodi Sundowns and in France.
With Dolly now a free agent, SuperSport came close to securing his signature. The former Bafana Bafana midfielder had even undergone a medical at the club as part of the transfer process. However, a late turn of events saw the deal fall through at the eleventh hour.
Matsatsantsa head coach Gavin Hunt was faced with a difficult decision between signing Dolly and Vincent Pule. Ultimately, Hunt opted for the ex-Orlando Pirates star Pule, citing his versatility and familiarity with the player as key factors in his decision.
The duo previously worked together at now-defunct Bidvest Wits. They were part of the team’s success as Wits won the 2016/17 ABSA Premiership [now called the Betway Premiership].
WHY SUPERSPORT COULDN’T LAND DOLLY: CEO STAN MATTHEWS SPEAKS
“I couldn’t sign Keagan Dolly and Vincent Pule; that’s Gavin’s choice. He’s best suited to answer that question; my job is to support the coach,” said Matthews.
“He’s worked with Vincent before; he feels like Vincent can play far on the wing and as a number 10 [attacking midfielder]. He knows the training, his pressing and he knows what he wants from him.
“I think maybe Gavin was just uncertain as to where Keagan is. We did have a medical which was fine, but when it came down to selection of either A or B, that’s the coach’s call. And I look to close up what he wants, and he wanted Vincent.”
‘Mashonisa’ is in line to make his SuperSport debut on Saturday, 03 August. The Tshwane side will face his former Pirates in the quarter-finals of the MTN8. Kickoff at Orlando Stadium is at 6pm.
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