Kaizer Chiefs legend backs grandson Mpho Padime to shine at Orlando Pirates

A Kaizer Chiefs legend believes his grandson, Mpho Padime, has taken the right step by joining Orlando Pirates and says the teenager must remain focused as he prepares for senior football.

Padime was promoted to the Pirates senior squad after an outstanding campaign in the DStv Diski Challenge last season. The forward finished as the club’s leading scorer with 10 goals and also provided eight assists as Pirates won the competition.

The youngster, affectionately known as ‘Phopho’, is expected to make an impression at a time when he could be called upon to fill the sizeable role left by Relebohile Mofokeng. Padime has been praised for his skill, intelligence, passing range and ability to score goals.

His grandfather, Johannes Phadime, said the family had supported Padime’s football development while also stressing the importance of education.

“’Phopho is my grandson. We are a family of skilled individuals. I have guided him through academy schools. I believe that a child should focus on their education as well as on football, and that is how he was identified,” said Johannes Phadime in an interview with KickOff.

Phadime, who is also known by the nickname ‘Disco’, urged his grandson to approach his development with humility and patience rather than trying to compare himself with other players.

“He is still young and should be encouraged to learn every day. I always advise him to set aside pride, continue learning, and remain focused.

“He should not compete to surpass others, as he is still on a learning curve and has the potential to achieve whatever he aspires. His greatest ambition is to play overseas.

“My only wish is for him to stay focused.”

The veteran said he did not decide which club Padime should join, explaining that it was Pirates who recognised the youngster’s ability. He added that he had helped develop several young players who went on to spend time with Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

“I cannot dictate which club he should play for; Pirates recognised his talent. I have developed many young players who have had stints at Chiefs, Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns. Some are still active in those clubs, including Lebohang Maboe, whom I have mentored.

“Therefore, Phopho’s move to Pirates is a positive development. This is an appropriate starting point. He was identified before the age of 17, began at Under-17 level, was promoted, and subsequently moved to the Under-19 squad,” says the man nicknamed ‘Disco’, adding that he believes ‘Phopho’ is on the right path.

Padime’s progress through the Pirates academy has seen him move from the Under-17 level to the Under-19 squad before earning promotion to the senior team.

His grandfather believes the performances that have brought him this far represent only the beginning of what he can achieve, and has called on him to continue working hard.

“He must continue to work diligently.

“What has been observed from him thus far is only a glimpse of his potential. He is still learning, and much more is to come.”