Thabo Cele reflects on difficult Kaizer Chiefs exit and finding himself
Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Thabo Cele has opened up about a difficult journey and exit from Kaizer Chiefs, stating he always wanted to find himself as he adjusts to life under Miguel Cardoso’s high-functioning unit at Chloorkop, goal.com reported.
Departing Naturena After Eighteen Months
Thabo Cele spent 18 months at Kaizer Chiefs after arriving in January 2025, helping the Soweto giants end a 10-year silverware drought by lifting the Nedbank Cup that same year, according to FARPost ZA. The 29-year-old midfielder made 36 appearances across all competitions for Amakhosi before falling out of favor. Prior to the current campaign, Cele was excluded from the squad’s pre-season tour to Spain. Upon returning from Europe, Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz publicly stated that the playmaker was not part of his plans, leading Cele to train away from the first-team squad before securing a free transfer to Mamelodi Sundowns for the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.
Cele Ignores Distractions to Revive Career at Sundowns
Reflecting on the challenges of his departure, Cele told reporters that his focus remained solely on hard work and ignoring outside noise. “For me, it’s always been about continuing to work hard and forgetting the distractions that are outside. Growing up, I always wanted to find myself,” Cele said, as reported by FARPost ZA. Sowetan added that the midfielder described football as a difficult journey that required resilience, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to revive his career. Since arriving in Tshwane, Cele has already collected two trophies, winning both the FIFA African-Asian Pacific Cup and the MTN8 after Sundowns defeated Orlando Pirates 2-0 in the final at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Chasing Silverware on Multiple Fronts
The insatiable craving for silverware at Chloorkop matches Cele’s personal ambition, where finishing second remains unacceptable. The South African noted that although Cele has not featured regularly since his arrival, the midfielder provides depth to a squad facing a daunting schedule of domestic and CAF assignments. Describing the winning culture within the camp, Cele emphasized the collective obsession with success. “And today, we went into the game looking to win the final because it’s been a while since we won this MTN8.”
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