Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Edson Castillo has rated the Betway Premiership and opened up on how his spell at Naturena built him as a player.
The 31-year-old is back in his native Venezuela and has just signed for Carabobo FC as a free agent, six months after leaving Amakhosi. That was after a two-season stint at Chiefs, although his final term saw him struggling with injuries.
His departure was surprising, leaving the Soweto giants with Sibongiseni Mthethwa and Thabo Cele as the main options in central midfield. In the 41 games he played for Amakhosi across all competitions, Castillo scored five goals and provided two assists.
He continued as a Venezuela international while at Chiefs, although he was overlooked from some national team camps.
HOW DID CHIEFS TRANSFORM CASTILLO’S GAME?
“I’m happy to be back in Venezuela. From abroad, I’ve watched almost all the matches of the league [Betway Premiership], and it’s a very even competition. That’s good for continuing to grow as a player,” said Castillo.
“The South African league is very competitive and physically demanding. It helped my game because I’m a player who pushes himself to the limit, and performing at that level helped me be at 100 per cent.
“I feel I’m at a stage in my career where I’m more mature, I have a lot of experience, and I can contribute a lot to Carabobo. I’m a dynamic player who can contribute both defensively and offensively. I’m a defensive midfielder who likes to score goals.
“Carabobo;I’m joining a team that’s ideal for my style of play because they like to have a lot of possession and create plenty of space to attack. That will help me create multiple scoring opportunities in matches.
“I’m coming with every intention and desire to be back on the national team. Carabobo is a club that’s been doing well and playing good football. I’m sure they’ll help me get back in top form.”
RELATED STORY: Kaizer Chiefs and Edson Castillo part ways