Angolan defender Miguel Inacio’s jersey number at Kaizer Chiefs is more than just a number and he has revealed the emotional reason why he chose the odd 84.
The 28-year-old recently joined Amakhosi under new coach Nasreddine and opted to don number 84. Other players that were brought in by the Soweto giants to bolster the squad include Bradley Cross, Njabulo Blom, Bongani Sam, Gaston Sirino, Rushwin Dortley, and Fiacre Ntwari.
Last season, the talented defender was playing for Angolan giants Petro de Luanda. The club won the Angolan Girabola [league] three times in a row. At Petro, the 28-year-old used to wear jersey number 14.
Facing the media for the first time since his arrival in South Africa on Wednesday at Kaizer Chiefs Village, Inacio shared the touching reason behind his number selection.
The defender could be in action and make his debut when Amakhosi resume their 2024/25 Betway Premiership campaign. They kick off their campaign against Marumo Gallants on Saturday, 14 September at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein. Kickoff is as 5:30pm.
WHAT INACIO MIGUEL SAID ABOUT HIS JERSEY NUMBER 84
Miguel says he opted for the number 84 jersey number in honour of his late grandmother who raised him.
“I started with number 83 but it was a confusion. I’m number 84. I lost my grandmother she was the one who raised me. She passed away unfortunately last year when she was 84 years old,” said Miguel.
“So I decided to make this a testimonial on her that’s why I chose number 84 me and my family.”
Inacio’s heartfelt gesture has resonated with fans, showcasing the deep personal connections players often have with their jersey numbers.
It’s a reminder that beyond the sport, there are stories of love, loss, and remembrance woven into the fabric of every team.
As Inacio takes to the field for Amakhosi, he’ll carry not only the hopes of the club and it’s supporters, but also the cherished memory of his late grandmother, forever linked to the number on his back.
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