Kaizer Chiefs’ strategy of recruiting from their arch-rivals has raised
questions about their next potential move. After securing the signings of
former Orlando Pirates players Paseka Mako (on a pre-contract) and Thabiso
Monyane (on a free transfer), attention has now turned to whether the club
should make a move for the out-of-favor Bucs winger, Monnapule Saleng.
Saleng, currently on loan at Orbit College, has been sidelined for the last
seven months due to a well-documented saga with Pirates. Despite his proven
quality—evident in his breakout season—doubts persist about his future at
the Soweto giants, especially given the increased competition for places
under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
This has led to suggestions that Chiefs could be the perfect club to
“rescue” the 27-year-old’s career. However, former Amakhosi winger Thuso
Phala has issued a word of caution, emphasizing that talent is only part of
the equation at a club of Chiefs’ stature.
Phala’s Verdict: Respect Trumps Talent
In an interview on the Omni Audio Africa YouTube Channel, Phala acknowledged
Saleng’s ability but highlighted the intangible factors that determine
success.
“He’s a quality player, at Kaizer Chiefs we want quality players, but the
unfortunate part is that quality alone at Chiefs is not enough,” Phala
stated. “No one is bigger than the game or the team. So if you respect the
game, the game will respect you back.”
Phala pointed to the contrasting career paths of Saleng and his former
teammate, Mohau Nkota, as a prime example. “Saleng is far more talented than
Nkota. Nkota comes, plays a season, scores goals, gets a national team
call-up and secures a big-money move—because he respects the game.”
He questioned the reasons behind Saleng’s stagnation, suggesting his failure
to secure a high-profile move overseas despite his early success might be
linked to off-field factors. “If he comes to Chiefs, will he come for
respecting the game, or he wants to shine? Because at the end of the day,
the team comes first,” Phala added.
The debate continues as Chiefs look to rebuild, having also negotiated the
permanent signing of Etiosa Ighodaro from Mamelodi Sundowns in the
off-season. Whether they see Saleng as the next reclamation project remains
to be seen, but Phala’s comments underscore that any potential move would
come with significant questions beyond mere footballing talent.
