Langelihle Phili targets trophies after completing Kaizer Chiefs move

Kaizer Chiefs’ new signing Langelihle Phili says he is determined to help the club win trophies after completing his move from Stellenbosch this week.

The 21-year-old winger has joined Amakhosi with an immediate ambition to deliver silverware and create lasting memories with the club. His transfer was part of a deal that saw Ashley Du Preez and Given Msimango move in the opposite direction to Stellenbosch.

Phili arrives at Chiefs after an impressive spell with Stellenbosch, where he made 46 appearances, scored seven goals and supplied two assists. His performances earned him the club’s Player of the Season award.

“Thank you for choosing me. I am finally here and would love nothing more than to win trophies and make great memories with you,” Phili told the club’s official website.

The move also carries special significance for the winger because he grew up supporting Kaizer Chiefs. Phili said his connection with the club and its history made the decision to join Amakhosi a straightforward one.

“I had two seasons with Stellenbosch and now I am overjoyed to be here at Chiefs,” he said.

He explained that his first thoughts after completing the transfer were of his late grandmother, who shared his support for the club.

“The first thing that came to mind was my grandma, who has sadly passed away. She supported Kaizer Chiefs and I always used to watch them with her when I was young.

“Everyone at home supports Amakhosi, so I thought it would be a good move for me to join the team I grew up supporting. Being here feels like my dream has really come true.

“I can’t wait to meet everybody and start training with the rest of the team and the coaching staff.”

Phili could make his Kaizer Chiefs debut on Sunday, when the club host Golden Arrows in the MTN8 quarter-final at FNB Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00.

His arrival gives Chiefs another attacking option as they begin their campaign in the competition, while the player will be hoping to make an early impression after being recognised as Stellenbosch’s outstanding performer last season.

For Phili, the move represents both a major step in his career and the fulfilment of a childhood ambition. Having watched Kaizer Chiefs alongside his grandmother while growing up, he now has the opportunity to represent the club he supported and compete for trophies with Amakhosi.

The transfer was reported by Sowetan, which also invited readers to join its WhatsApp channel for the latest news.