Shabalala: Pressure a privilege for Chiefs

• Published date: 26 April 2024
• Author: Mihlali Baleka mihlali.baleka@inl.co.za
• Publication title: Daily News

Shabalala grew up as a staunch Orlando Pirates fan. But after his move into Chiefs’ youth structures, he had to change allegiances

His heart has been fixed on the Amakhosi since then – so much so that it became his ultimate dream to play for the first team.

That dream was realised during last season’s pre-season as the then-18-year-old signed his first professional contract with the Glamour Boys.

But after being in and out of the team last season, he was expected to take the top flight by storm in the current campaign. However, that hasn’t been the case. Instead, Shabalala has drowned with the team, doing little to save the club from enduring a nine-year barren run.

That hasn’t gone down well with the 20-year-old, who’s not only been subjected to criticism on matchday, but on the streets and in social media as well.

“It’s sad. It’s painful, waking up every day and seeing people doubting you, not having trust in you. Seeing people think that you are not a good player,” he said yesterday, ahead of tomorrow’s DSTV Premiership clash against SuperSport United in Polokwane (5.30pm kick-off).

“But I would say pressure is a privilege in such a big team – a big institution. Being in such a situation also teaches us how to be men – we are still young.”

The criticism that Shabalala has endured stings. But he’s been man enough to admit that his performances have left a lot to be desired as well.

“I wouldn’t lie to you, it hasn’t been a good start for me here at Kaizer Chiefs. It’s been ups and downs,” Shabalala soberly reflected.

“I think I have been missing a lot of chances in front of goal.

“But you know here in South Africa, good players are only those who score goals.

“But for me, the goals will come at the right moment. Outside the field I am working hard, working on myself. At the right time, it will all come together.”

Shabalala is right. There’s still ample time for him to improve with the team, given that he’s only 20 and in his second season as a professional.

He doesn’t want that only for himself, though, but...