Thabo Cele targets more trophies after difficult Kaizer Chiefs spell

Thabo Cele says he is “grateful” to be at Mamelodi Sundowns after helping the club win two trophies since joining as a free agent following his release by Kaizer Chiefs.

The 29-year-old midfielder moved to Sundowns during the off-season after Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz decided he was not part of his plans.

Cele has already contributed to victories in the MTN8 and the Fifa African Asian-Pacific Cup, and celebrated his latest success after Sundowns beat Orlando Pirates 2-0 in Saturday’s final at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Reflecting on the journey that brought him to the club, Cele said he had concentrated on overcoming his setbacks rather than looking back at his time with Chiefs.

“For me, football is life; it has been a difficult journey, but one I had to overcome,” Cele told the media after the match.

“Going through what I went through to be here, it has been the same thing: pushing myself and focusing on what is coming next.

“And being here today, I’m so grateful.”

Cele said maintaining his work ethic and blocking out distractions had been central to his progress.

“For me, it’s always been the same thing: to keep on working hard, focus on myself, and forget the distractions that are outside,” he said.

“So, me being here is massive and also a motivation to go to the next level.”

The former Kaizer Chiefs player said winning two trophies so soon after arriving at Sundowns was particularly meaningful, both personally and for the club’s new arrivals.

“It’s a blessing … having joined the club recently, winning these two trophies is very special for me and special for us as the new players coming in to also help the club elevate,” he said.

Cele added that Sundowns’ desire for further success had been clear in their approach to the MTN8 final, especially after a period without winning the competition.

“It’s a blessing to be part of this team because it’s a team that’s always … looking for more,” he said.

“And today, we went into the game looking to win the final because it’s been a while since we won this MTN8. So, yeah, it’s a blessing to be part of this team.”

Cele said his immediate focus remained on helping Masandawana secure more honours after making a positive start to his time at the club.