Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Dumisani Zuma has opened up about his departure from Naturena, saying he doesn’t have an alcohol challenge despite reports suggesting otherwise at the time.
Zuma joined Amakhosi in 2017 from Bloemfontein Celtic but left in June 2022 due to disciplinary issues.
The 29-year-old moved to AmaZulu where he played 23 matches in all competitions and scored one goal before joining the now defunct Moroka Swallows.
Zuma, who is currently without a club, spoke to Metro FM’s Sports Night Amplified with Andile Ncube on Wednesday where he shared insight on what happened at Naturena.
“No I don’t have” answered Zuma when asked if he has an alcohol problem,” he stated.
“I have only been caught once [with a breathalyser] and that was the time Basia [Michaels] and I decided that it’s time for us to go separate ways with the team because I wasn’t okay anymore.
“It was a mutual agreement to part ways and thank you for the service Dumi and thank you for the service at the team.”
Zuma also dismissed reports that claimed he missed training because of drinking issues and came to training under the influence or faced disciplinary proceedings because of alcohol related problems, maintaining that happened only once.
“It was that day I was leaving [when I was caught],” added Zuma.
“I think it was even published or posted on Instagram or something because the following day I came to training and I could see the way my teammates greeted me and everything. They said check your Instagram.”
The Kwa Zulu Natal born player, however, appreciates what the club has done for him and treating him like a son but clarified that he was never taken to rehab but saw a psychologist who said he didn’t have any extra ordinary challenges and/or with alcoholic.
“No [I have never been to rehab],” he continued.
“What happened is that after my accident I sent an email I think to the manager and I was like I want to retire now because I cant’.
“It was too much for me and then that’s when I missed training. And when they found me they said I need to go speak to the psychologist and everything.”
