Former Orlando Pirates winger Sifiso Myeni has disclosed details of a conversation he had with Mfundo Vilakazi before the latter joined Kaizer Chiefs’ development ranks and made his professional debut.
Myeni and Vilakazi’s paths crossed at the Walter Sisulu Discovery Football tournament in Soweto, a platform where Myeni, as a mentor, offered guidance to aspiring young footballers, including the then-participating Vilakazi.
After showcasing his skills in Soweto, Mfundo Vilakazi joined the Chiefs development ranks, making a significant impact in the Diski Challenge. His development culminated in a promotion to the senior Amakhosi squad during the 2023/24 PSL season under coach Cavin Johnson.
The youngster is now in his second season with the Soweto giants under the guidance of the highly-rated Tunisan mentor Nasreddine Nabi. In the first team, the 19-year-old joined other academy graduates like Samkelo Zwane, Mduduzi Shabalala and Wandile Duba.
The rising star known as ‘Obrigado’ has already made 20 appearances across all competitions for Amakhosi in the current season. He has found the back of the net two times and grabbed an assist.
MFUNDO VILAKAZI TOLD HE’D MAKE IT AS A PRO BY SIFISO MYENI
The retired PSL star stated that he once told Vilakazi he would be a professional footballer one day after seeing his skill at an amateur competition.
“I met [Mfundo] Vilakazi a long time ago when he was still a young boy at the Discovery tournament in Soweto. I may not be exact about the year, but I think he was 12 to 15 years old during that time,” Myeni told FARPost.
“During a match, there’s one pass that he handled before releasing it. It was quality. After the match, I spoke to him, and I said, ‘You have a lot of talent, you’re skilful, keep on working hard. One day you’re going to be a professional player playing in the league’.
“When I saw the news that he’s been promoted to Chiefs senior team, it wasn’t a surprise to me. I’ve always known that the boy has quality, and it was just a matter of time before his opportunity came.
“I think he has improved a lot, and he’s still going to improve. He’s young. He still has many more seasons to play. My hope for him is that he stays fit and grounded. Now and then, we chat on the phone sometimes.”
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