Former Kaizer Chiefs striker Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana has backed the club’s resurgence while reflecting on his departure and his stint in Saudi Arabia.
The Burundi international, who left Amakhosi at the end of the 2022/23 PSL season, is currently settling in well in Saudi Arabia.
The 28-year-old has scored five goals in eight starts as he settles into life at Jeddah SC in Saudi Arabia. He has also made seven substitute appearances for the Saudi First Division club.
In an interview with FARPost, he opened up about his departure from the Soweto giants, insisting he harbours no resentment toward some sections of the fans while expressing confidence in the club’s upward trajectory.
Bimenyimana acknowledged that his departure from Naturena drew mixed reactions but said he chose not to dwell on the criticism.
“I am aware that when I left Chiefs, some fans were against me, but I didn’t take it to heart. I leave everything in God’s hands. As a Christian, I believe everything happens for a reason,” he told FARPost.
He also revealed that he has maintained close ties with several former teammates, who were supportive during his stint at the club. He singled out players such as Edmilson Dove, who has since left Amakhosi, Zitha Kwinika, Bruce Bvuma and George Matlou as ex-teammates with whom he still shares a strong bond.
“I’ve kept in touch with my former teammates… they were very warm toward me during my time there, and we remain friends,” he added.
BIMENYIMANA IMPRESSED BY CHIEFS
Despite his departure, Bimenyimana continues to follow Chiefs closely and believes the club is on the right path after a difficult previous campaign.
“Whenever I don’t have training or a match, I watch Kaizer Chiefs. I love the team. I’ve been really impressed by their progress. They are doing amazing things, but I still think there is more to come from them,” he said.
He also backed the technical team led by Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, expressing confidence in their ability to take the team forward.
“I know Coach Cedric Kaze well, and I know what he is capable of; I believe both the coaches and the players can push even further,” he said, adding that his compatriot coached him at the Under-17 level.
Looking ahead, Bimenyimana believes Chiefs can secure a return to continental contention, predicting a strong league finish. The Soweto giants have gone on a seven-match unbeaten run and look likely to cement their third-place finish. Finishing third secures CAF Confederation Cup football next season.
“After finishing outside the top eight last season, I’m confident they will maintain the gap, secure a Top Eight finish, and compete for a CAF Confed Cup spot,” he said.
Bimenyimana is currently plying his trade in Saudi Arabia, where he described the football environment as both demanding and rewarding. “As for my time in Saudi Arabia, the league here is excellent and very competitive,” said Bimenyimana.
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