Thabiso Monyane is determined to prove his critics wrong as Kaizer Chiefs prepare to face his former club, Orlando Pirates, in Saturday’s Soweto derby at FNB Stadium.
The right-back joined Chiefs during the winter transfer window, ending a 13-year stay with Pirates, where he rose through the youth ranks to the senior team. His move to their arch-rivals sparked criticism from some supporters, who viewed it as a betrayal, while others questioned his motives.
Speaking ahead of Chiefs’ Betway Premiership clash against Stellenbosch — a key fixture before the derby — Monyane said he is fully committed to his new club.
“I am proud to say I am a certified Glamour Boy,” he said, adding that he has embraced the new challenge and is focused on helping Chiefs achieve their goals, including a possible return to CAF Champions League football.
Once hailed by former Pirates coach Rulani Mokwena as the best right-back in the country, Monyane’s progress was hampered by injuries and coaching changes. He has since fallen down the pecking order in the national team, with Hugo Broos favouring other options at right-back.
Despite the outside noise, Monyane insists he is focused on hard work and the future. Chiefs currently sit fourth on the log and will look to secure a vital win against Stellenbosch to boost morale ahead of the highly anticipated derby.
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