Former Kaizer Chiefs captain Yusuf Maart has opened up on his decision to commit his long-term future to Austrian side SV Ried.
The South African midfielder has put pen to paper on an improved contract extension, keeping him at the club until June 2028.
The transfer was initially revealed by his agency, P Management, last week before Austrian outfit SV Ried officially confirmed the deal on Tuesday afternoon.
Maart was one of the key players for the Austrian outfit last season, making 38 appearances across all competitions. He has carried that momentum into the current campaign, where he has already featured in seven games and registered two assists.
YUSUF MAART ON SIGNING NEW CONTRACT AT SV RIED
Speaking after finalising the deal, the former Sekhukhune United star expressed his gratitude to the club’s management and supporters for their continued faith in his abilities.
“I am happy and content here in Ried, and I signed this new contract because of the entire team. The club is investing heavily in me and putting great trust in me,” Maart said.
“I am very grateful to be given another chance with this contract to play here in Europe and in Austria. A big thank you goes to the fans for their support, as well as to my family who have my back and help me stay mentally strong.”
Maart emphasised that his primary focus remains on driving the team forward on the pitch.
“My goal is to always give my best for the team and for myself as a player—on the pitch, in training, and in matches. Ultimately, it’s always about making the team better,” he added.
SV Ried currently sit ninth in the Austrian Bundesliga table, having accumulated four points from their opening five matches [one win, one draw, three losses].
RELATED STORY: Yusuf Maart breaks down the shift from PSL flair to European structure
