Renaldo Leaner reveals lifelong Kaizer Chiefs dream after ‘quick’ Amakhosi move

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner has revealed that joining Amakhosi was a dream he had always carried, admitting he did not hesitate when the opportunity to move to Naturena presented itself.

The Bafana Bafana shot-stopper completed his switch to Chiefs as a free agent after Sekhukhune United opted against renewing his contract, handing him the chance to join one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.

The 28-year-old will now battle for the starting position with Brandon Petersen, Bruce Bvuma, Takalani Mazhamba and Fiacre Ntwari as Chiefs prepare for the new season.

Leaner said his desire to represent the Soweto giants made the decision an easy one once he became available.

“I have always wanted to play for Chiefs, so when I became a free agent after my contract expired with my previous club, I chose to join Kaizer Chiefs,” Leaner told the club’s official website.

Naturena facilities left new signing impressed

The goalkeeper admitted his first visit to Chiefs’ Naturena headquarters came when he signed his contract, with the club’s infrastructure immediately strengthening his excitement about beginning his journey with Amakhosi.

“Actually my first time at the village in Naturena was when I went to sign for Chiefs. I was amazed and impressed by what I saw when they took me on a tour of the facilities,” he said.

“It made me even more eager to start because everything is here to make a world-class training base.”

Leaner has already linked up with his new teammates and featured for Chiefs during their pre-season camp in Spain, where they faced Scottish giants Glasgow Rangers.

The goalkeeper admitted the speed of his transition has surprised him, having travelled with the squad just days after completing his move.

“It’s still like a bit of a shock to me to be in Spain with Kaizer Chiefs right now because everything happened so quickly,” he said.

Goalkeeper ready for pressure of Amakhosi shirt

Despite the increased attention that comes with playing for Chiefs, Leaner believes he has the mentality and ability to handle the expectations that surround the club.

The goalkeeper said the early support from supporters has shown him the responsibility attached to wearing the Amakhosi badge.

“I have received a lot of love these past days. I have literally been a Chiefs player for less than seven days and already I have a lot of new followers sending so many messages of encouragement on social media,” he added.

“It made me realise I have reached a higher platform than before, so it also comes with extra professional responsibility because it’s a bit like having a magnifying glass on you from an exposure point of view.”

Leaner also promised to repay the faith shown in him by the club and supporters, insisting he is ready to contribute whenever given the opportunity.

“I believe I have the footballing ability and mentality to cope with the added pressure of playing for the biggest Club in the country,” he said.

“I invite you all to come and support us and we will do everything in our power to make them proud this season because your belief in the team is a great motivator for us to give you reasons to celebrate.”