Kaizer Chiefs' impressive track record of promoting academy talent to senior level is set to continue, with DDC head coach Vela Khumalo identifying striker Shaun Els as the next prospect ready to make his mark.
Following the recent promotion of Naledi Hlongwane to the first team, Khumalo believes Els represents the future of Chiefs' attacking options and could emerge as one of the standout performers in this season's Diski Challenge.
"There is Shaun Els. He is a striker who is coming from the Under-19s. He is one player that you need to see this season. He is coming very very strong now that (Naledi) Hlongwane is going to the first team, he is going to be a very good replacement. He is giving Neo Bohloko a run for his money," Khumalo stated.
Development Over Silverware
While Chiefs' DDC claimed the title last season, Khumalo emphasized that player development remains the primary objective, with silverware serving as a welcome bonus rather than the ultimate goal.
"As a team it's not more about winning, it's about players that we are going to develop and and seeing more players going to the first team. I think the objective is all about seeing these boys going to greater heights. Maybe achieving their dreams of becoming professional players."
Khumalo highlighted the broader vision of the academy program, which extends beyond club success to national team recognition.
"At the moment they are semi-professional. Importantly, it will be for them to be exposed to this kind of environment and also for them to go to respective national teams. Then it will be from the point of Kaizer Chiefs to try by all means to defend the title," Khumalo added.
New Season, Fresh Challenges
Looking ahead to the new DDC campaign, Khumalo anticipates increased competition as rival academies strengthen their squads with promoted players and new coaching appointments.
"As always we expect to see talent from all the teams. New players being promoted from different age groups to the DDC. New players new coaches. That's more what we are expecting. New challenges. Yeah, that is what what we expect," he said.
Chiefs' recent success in promoting youngsters like Mfundo Vilakazi and Hlongwane to senior level has set a benchmark for the academy program, with Els potentially next in line to follow their pathway.
Title Defense Begins
Amakhosi juniors will begin their title defense against Orbit College on Sunday, marking the start of what promises to be another competitive DDC season.
For Khumalo and his charges, the challenge will be balancing the pressure of defending their crown while maintaining their primary focus on nurturing the next generation of Amakhosi stars.
