While Kaizer Chiefs are in the process of releasing players, midfielder George Matlou has been granted a reprieve and will remain with the team for an additional year, the Siya crew understands.
Siya sources have indicated that Amakhosi have decided to exercise a one-year option on Matlou's contract, which was set to expire on June 30, giving the former Under-20 national team player another opportunity to showcase his full potential.
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A source close to the club discussed what the rationale is behind the decision to retain Matlou.
"Yes, it's true he played only seven games in the league last season before he got injured and missed out on the rest of the season due to that injury which took time to recover. But the people who are working with the players and the technical team have agreed that he is a good player and he deserves to be given the second chance to prove himself at Chiefs hence the option to exercise his contract," the Siya source stated.
So, the decision was influenced by Matlou's potential and his performances prior to his injury, while a second insider elaborated on the club's criteria.
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"In those seven games that he played in, he started most of them and the supporters started looking at him and seeing what he can do for the team. So they have agreed that they can't deprive the supporters as well as the player himself of the chance to showcase his talent at Chiefs because of the injury he suffered. So, they have given him a second chance, and after all, the club had that option to exercise the renewal of his contract if they are happy and that means they are happy with what they see in him," the second source observed.
Chiefs' decision to extend Matlou's contract reflects a commitment to supporting player development and recovery. By giving Matlou another year to demonstrate his abilities, the club underscores its belief in his potential and its willingness to invest in players' long-term contributions.
This move not only benefits Matlou but also provides the team with continued access to a talented midfielder who has already shown promise in his limited appearances.
