Cape Town City legend Thami Mkhize has penned an emotional farewell after his exit from the club upon their relegation to the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
Mkhize, 36, departs as one of the founding squad members of City, having initially joined Orlando Pirates, terminating his contract before featuring in a single game, resurfacing at City in the same transfer window, before engraving history into the Citizens future.
Back in 2016, as the club put together a squad after securing the status of Mpumalanga Black Aces, not many would have expected the impact the former Martizburg United defender would have on the City squad.
He become a consistent, reliable performer for nearly a decade, earning the captain’s armband and developing into a full senior international that represented Bafana Bafana at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations – but now, after the shock relegation of the Citizens, he’s officially parted ways.
“Today I am feeling truly grateful, for the opportunity, the platform and chance I was given for the past 8 years with this club,” read part of his lengthy farewell message on social media.
“I lived and enjoyed what I have always dreamed of as a child. I would like to thank the team and all the sponsors for opening the door for me. We have created memorable moments together that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
Mkhize was a firm fan favourite at the DHL Stadium, one that always left everything on the pitch and part of his final words, he did not stop short of the fan base that developed in the Mother City, as part of a journey that saw them win two domestic cups and finish league runners-up twice.
“To our faithful citizens, I want to thank you for all the support, encouragement and love you have shown towards me. You have touched my soul and showed me what loyalty looks like,” he added.
“As sad as I am leaving you guys like this, I want to emphasise the importance of the love that you have shown me. I appreciate you all Citizens.”
Mkhize departs with 270 games to his name at City with eight goals, 21 assists, the MTN8 and Telkom Knockout trophy.
