Former Orlando Pirates defender backs Edmilson Chaney to become Soweto favourite

Former Orlando Pirates defender Kamal Sait believes teenage signing Edmilson Chaney has the ability to establish himself as a household name at the Soweto club.

Sait, who played for Bucs between 1998 and 2002, was impressed by the club’s decision to recruit Chaney after the youngster helped Hope FC secure promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship in June.

The 54-year-old said Chaney’s rise should serve as a reminder to players in Cape Town’s lower leagues that their performances can attract attention from the biggest clubs.

“Firstly, I want to say that this should also be an indication and reminder to all young players from the lower leagues in Cape Town that you must always perform at your very best as you never know who is watching,” Sait told KickOff.

“To think Chaney was spotted in the Second Division, that should be a reminder not to take any football exercise or match for granted.”

Sait feels Chaney already possesses the attributes needed to succeed, although he says the player still has considerable development ahead of him.

“Edmilson is obviously a special player, but there’s a long road ahead of him. In my view, he has what it takes: the skill, pace combined with football intelligence, which will further increase as he develops. He could become a crowd favourite.”

Sait warns of pressure and lifestyle changes

While praising Chaney’s talent, Sait also cautioned the youngster about the challenges that can follow a move to a high-profile club.

He reflected on his own experiences and said young footballers must be prepared for the financial and professional demands that come with greater recognition.

“Many of us back then failed as we fell into the trap of earning a little bit more money than what you are used to and can manage. Suddenly, your lifestyle changes. There was no financial advice or guidance for us, so, yeah, I made our mistakes.”

“Look, at the end of the day, you are there to do a job and that is what he must tell himself and do it to the best of his ability.”

Sait pointed to several Cape Town-born players at Mamelodi Sundowns as examples of footballers who have handled the increased attention that comes with playing for a leading club.

“Look at some of the young talented players [from Cape Town] currently with [Mamelodi] Sundowns, and chances are they are going to make it to the top. You can also look at how good Tashreeq [Matthews] is doing at the club. You also don’t hear any negatives about Iqraam Rayners. These players respect and know what their jobs and professions are worth.”

He added that life at a major club brought intense scrutiny, but said that should not prevent players from taking opportunities away from home.

“So, when you play for those teams you are very much in the spotlight. Anytime you put your foot out of line, someone will know about it.”

“We also don’t want to discourage our players from going. No, they must go and experience life up north when the opportunity comes,” said Sait, who heads the Maties Academy’s female team and is also a Coaching Facilitator for SAFA and CAF.