Versatile star Happy Mashiane has delivered an emotional farewell message to Kaizer Chiefs following his exit from the Soweto giants.
The 28-year-old left-back, who can also play as a winger, was recently released by Amakhosi and is now a free agent. His departure marks the end of 12 years as a Chiefs player, dating from his time in the club’s development structures.
The arrival of new Amakhosi coach Fernando Fa Cruz saw Mashiane without a place in the Frenchman’s project. Having risen through the Chiefs development ranks, Mashiane spent seven years as a first-team player with the Soweto giants.
What started as a promising career, however, did not reach full potential. During his early days in the Amakhosi senior team, Mashiane showed glimpses of a future Bafana Bafana prospect.
But he faded, leading to Chiefs parting ways with him. Struggling for form and game time in recent seasons, Mashiane was loaned out to Siwelele FC last term.
However, the loan move did not provide him with playing opportunities, as he last played competitive football in September 2025. After making just one appearance for Siwelele, he now searches for a new home, hoping last season’s difficult spell in Bloemfontein will not work against him.
HAPPY MASHIANE SAYS HIS GOODBYES TO KAIZER CHIEFS
Maashiane has poured out his heart to the Chiefs family as he waves goodbye to the club that reared him into a professional footballer.
“As I close this chapter of my life, I just want to say thank you. Twelve years ago, I joined Kaizer Chiefs as a 16-year-old boy with nothing but a dream,” Mashiane posted on social media on Wednesday.
“I never imagined the journey would shape me into the person and player I am today. I want to thank the club for believing in me from such a young age and giving me the opportunity to grow through the youth ranks and eventually wear the first-team jersey.
“Representing this badge has been one of the greatest honours of my life. To the chairman, management, coaches, technical staff, medical team, kit managers, office staff, and everyone who works tirelessly behind the scenes, thank you for everything you’ve done for me over the years.
“To all my teammates, past and present, thank you for every training session, every match, every victory, every setback, and every memory we created together. I’ll always be grateful to have shared this journey with you.
“And to the Amakhosi faithful, thank you for your incredible love and support. You stood by me through the highs and the lows, and I’ll never take that for granted. Although my time as a GLAMOUR BOY has come to an end, I leave with nothing but gratitude and respect for this special club.
“Kaizer Chiefs will always have a special place in my heart because this is where I grew up, both as a footballer and as a person. Thank you. Until we meet again.”
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