Baloyi backs Mayo to repay Kaizer Chiefs’ faith after permanent move

Kaizer Chiefs legend Brian Baloyi believes Khanyisa Mayo can rediscover his best form and justify the club’s decision to sign him permanently after a difficult first season at Naturena.

The 27-year-old striker scored only two league goals last season while on loan from Algerian club CR Belouizdad. His performances led to Mayo being included on Kaizer Chiefs’ long list of transfer-listed players at the end of the campaign.

He was named alongside Ashley du Preez, George Matlou, Fiacre Ntwari, Gaston Sirino, Etiosa Ighodaro, Happy Mashiane, Samkelo Zwane, Paseka Mako and Tashreeq Morris.

Most of those players have since left the club and begun the current season elsewhere. Mayo’s situation was different, however, with Kaizer Chiefs completing a permanent transfer for an undisclosed fee and on an undisclosed contract length.

Baloyi, speaking exclusively as a Hollywoodbets ambassador, said the move could give Mayo the confidence needed to return to the level he showed during his time with Cape Town City.

“Before we start getting concerned about the strikers, looking at what we have, I am hoping that Mayo will step up, get back to form, and become the Mayo we know from Cape Town City. I am hoping that this season he will get back to that level, especially now that he is no longer on loan but on a permanent deal,” said Baloyi in an exclusive interview as a Hollywoodbets ambassador.

The former goalkeeper also believes Mayo must embrace the expectations that come with representing one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.

“I am hoping that now he will feel, ‘I am back home’, focus, and understand the pressure that comes with playing for Kaizer Chiefs and that he can take that pressure and embrace it.”

Kaizer Chiefs scored 33 league goals last season, a total that did not match the strength of their defence. They conceded 19 goals, the second-best defensive record in the league behind bitter rivals Orlando Pirates, who allowed 12.

Mayo faces competition for a starting place in attack from Flavio Silva, Luke Baartman, Wandile Duba and Etiosa Ighodaro. His ability to play in more than one position could also be important as he competes for a place on the right wing.

Langelihle Phili, Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala are among the other players who operate in that position.

Mayo was unable to take part in pre-season training because of an injury. His return to fitness gives him the opportunity to challenge for a regular role and respond to the backing of Baloyi and the decision by Kaizer Chiefs to retain him on a permanent basis.