Bafana Bafana defender Siyabonga Ngezana has credited Kaizer Chiefs for his impressive career that’s begun to flourish in Europe.
Ngezana, 27, joined Romania Superliga giants FCSB in a surprise transfer in July 2023, where he was seemingly at a crossroads at Amakhosi.
His indifferent form with a love-hate relationship with supporters due to his odd error and lapses of concentration made him a target for abuse, but almost two years on, he’s among the finest players in the division and a regular in the senior national team.
“Kaizer Chiefs played a big role in my life, on and off the field. I wouldn’t have been the person that I am today if it wasn’t for Kaizer Chiefs,” he told iDiski Times.
“The opportunity that I got, if it wasn’t for Chiefs I wouldn’t be in Romania. I don’t think I’ve been here. And apart from that, throughout my career at Chiefs, in terms of facing some of the things. playing for Kaizer Chiefs was one of my dreams and it came true.”
Ngezana feels his mentality and ability to succeed in unfamiliar conditions like Romania, stemmed from his upbringing at Amakhosi, where he was immersed in a high-pressure environment from the moment he graduated from the club’s academy.
“I’m always going to be grateful for that opportunity. And, they built me a lot like they built me the person that I am today, in terms of character,” he added.
“I think if it wasn’t for Chiefs, I don’t think I could have made it, or I could have been the strong person that I am today.”
Ngezana’s side are currently competing for multiple honours, looking to retain the league and domestic cup, while also in 10th place in the 36-team UEFA Europa League standings.
