Kaizer Chiefs urged not to expect Elias Mokwana to fix every problem

Former Sekhukhune United captain Linda Mntambo says Kaizer Chiefs have signed a player who will give everything for the club, but has warned supporters not to expect Elias Mokwana to solve all of Amakhosi’s problems.

Chiefs confirmed Mokwana’s arrival as a free agent after finally securing the long-term target, having missed out on the winger two years ago when he was still with Sekhukhune United.

Mntambo played alongside Mokwana and captained Sekhukhune United before seeing the player develop into a Bafana Bafana international. Mokwana later moved to Esperance and also played in Saudi Arabia.

Speaking on The CARWASH Podcast, Mntambo said Mokwana should be given time to adapt to the demands of playing at Naturena, rather than being burdened with responsibility for the team’s wider fortunes.

“No individual will solve the team’s problems. Let’s not put Elias Mokwana under immense pressure. Yes, football in itself is a pressure game. And pressure is a privilege. It means something is expected of you,” Mntambo said.

‘A rough diamond’

Mntambo recalled that Mokwana was an unpolished talent when he first joined Sekhukhune United, possessing pace and dribbling ability but often giving the ball away. His attitude towards learning, however, set him apart.

“And I’ve seen him grow at Sekhukhune. You know, [he] came in rough, you know, that rough diamond, you know, speed, dribble, but he’d lose so many balls. But one thing about him is that he’s coachable. He’s a sponge. He can absorb, he can listen. And that’s what’s going to take him far.”

The former midfielder believes Chiefs have acquired a player who is both hardworking and humble. He said Mokwana must retain those characteristics while recognising the expectations that come with joining one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.

“I think one thing with Kaizer Chiefs, they found a player that is hardworking, a player that is humble. I think where he comes from, he comes from humble beginnings. He knows to be the lowest of the lowest of life. So I hope that he still has that within him.

“And then when he gets there, Kaizer Chiefs, he should not go there and think he’s a big star, he’s a superstar. There’s been so many players signed by Kaizer Chiefs back in the days who thought they were superstars but didn’t make it.”

More than a goalscorer

Mntambo also pointed to Mokwana’s ability to create chances for teammates, rather than focusing solely on his own contribution.

He recalled regularly benefiting from the winger’s delivery during their time together at Sekhukhune United.

“When I was at Sekhukhune, I would never make the box and not get a cutback from a Mokwana. So more than him getting the shine, he is a player that can also serve. And I think Kaizer Chiefs have found themselves a gem in that position.”

Mokwana is expected to compete for a wide attacking role alongside Mduduzi Shabalala, Mfundo Vilakazi and Langelihle Phili.

Mntambo said the competition should strengthen Chiefs, with the most important work taking place during training.

“I always believe that that’s what makes a good team great, you know, when you have two, three equally talented players in that same position is what makes the team great. What people see on match day is [a] cherry on top. It’s dessert. The hard work happens at training. That’s where iron sharpens iron.”