Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro says he can’t be credited for the meteoric rise of Mfundo Vilakazi at Kaizer Chiefs since starring with the Carling All-Stars together.
Vilakazi, 19, was one of the standout players in the All Stars XI – when they stunned Stellenbosch to win the Carling Cup in Polokwane last season.
He’s since earned a first-team contract at Chiefs and become a regular squad member in the 2024/25 season under new head coach Nasreddine Nabi.
“I think you have to contextualise that situation… Mfundo was there first because the people were voting for him to be there, it’s not a coach selection, it could be nice for me to say that, or follow that story [that I was there when it all started],” Riveiro said.
“The reality is that Mfundo was there because people voted for him, he was on the field because the people wanted him to be there and I think the boy answered [them] in a really good manner on the day.”
Riveiro went on to praise his mentality, professionalism and potentially the impact he has on the upcoming generation of talent in the competition and the country at large.
“He managed to show that he’s an interesting player. He’s a reality right now in his team and as a young player, I wish him all the best,” Riveiro added.
“He’s a good source of inspiration for the young players to have the motivation to go on the field on Saturday… especially to be themselves.
“Not trying to be Vilakazi or Mofokeng. They have to be themselves, show the players they are and hopefully they can have a good day.”
