Kaizer Chiefs’ young left-back, Happy Mashiane admitted to the challenges he continues to face despite his life improving since being in the Amakhosi first team.
The 22-year-old was promoted to the Amakhosi first team back in January last year, where he subsequently made his official debut against Tornado FC in a Nedbank Cup encounter.
Mashiane thereafter started in two consecutive league encounters in the 2018/19 campaign, before fracturing his toe – ruled out for the rest of the season.
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However, this season, the player has made just two appearances for Chiefs, patiently waiting to once again breakthrough in to the starting line-up.
Speaking on Chiefs’ official website, Mashiane revealed that despite his life being better since being in the first team, he is still faced with challenges and pressure.
“Since gaining promotion to the first team, my life changed for the better,” he said.
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“But I still face challenges though, especially in this era that is dominated by social media. We all know social media can make or break you. So being a role model to the younger ones comes with pressure because whatever you do, they try to emulate.”
“Playing for the Academy comes with pressure knowing very well it is every young boy’s dream to be associated with the brand Kaizer Chiefs.”
“I was one of the fortunate players to be accommodated in the Chiefs Academy. That came with the responsibility to be on my toes all the time. We were well looked after in the Academy, from nutritional meals, school transport and uniform.
“We had great mentors in the Academy. Legends such as Ryder Mofokeng, Ace Khuse and Arthur Zwane have been in the game for long and they played a huge role in our upbringing. They taught us a lot and I will always remember their advice,” he added.
Players who have had zero league minutes this season
