Belgian First Division side KV Kortrijk have handed attacker Cassius Mailula compassionate leave to travel to South Africa and attend to a pressing family issue.
The 24-year-old joined the second-tier side on a season-long loan deal from Major League Soccer outfit Toronto FC in September 2025. Kortrijk have the option to buy him when his loan spell expires.
While the player’s move to a second-tier side drew mixed reactions, Mailula now faces the positive prospect of playing in the Belgian top-flight should Kortrijk earn promotion and he remains at the club beyond the current campaign.
Kortrijk are seriously bidding to earn Belgian Pro League status. They are currently second in the First Division table, with nine points fewer than leaders SK Beveren, who, however, have played one game fewer.
But it has been a difficult season for Mailula, who has managed just three league appearances since his arrival at the club. However, the former Mamelodi Sundowns star still has a chance to pick himself back to his best form.
WHY HAS MAILULA BEEN GRANTED COMPASSIONATE LEAVE BY KORTRIJK?
“It is with great sadness that the club learned that Cassius Mailula’s brother recently passed away unexpectedly,” Kortrijk announced in a statement.
“During this particularly difficult time, Cassius has returned to South Africa to mourn with his family. He will therefore be absent from training and matches for the time being. Our thoughts are with him and his loved ones.
“The entire club sympathises deeply with them and wishes them strength, comfort, and solidarity. We ask that you respect his privacy and that of his family.”
It is the second time Mailula has faced the bereavement of a close family member within a year. In May 2025, he lost his mother when he was on loan at Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca.
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