Mokwana says earlier Kaizer Chiefs move was blocked by ‘obstacles’

Elias Mokwana has revealed that his move to Kaizer Chiefs could have happened in 2024, but difficulties prevented him from joining the club at that time.

The 27-year-old was strongly linked with the Soweto club while he was playing for Sekhukhune United. Instead, he moved to Tunisian powerhouse Esperance de Tunis before later spending time on loan with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hazem.

Mokwana has now returned to South Africa to join the club he has supported since childhood, completing what he describes as a long-held ambition.

“I grew up supporting Amakhosi. I first heard that they were interested in me when I was at Sekhukhune. Instead of going to Esperance, I was supposed to come here, but unfortunately some obstacles prevented it from happening at the time,” Mokwana told the Kaizer Chiefs website.

The former Platinum City Rovers attacker said his family was among the first to hear the news when the move was finally confirmed.

“I was sitting with my sisters, and the first thing I did was phone my mother to share the good news with her,” said the Bafana Bafana international.

Mokwana said he was unable to fully describe his emotions but was excited to begin his time at Naturena.

“I can’t explain the feeling exactly. I’m excited. It’s a very nice feeling. This is a good place with good people, and I am very happy to be here,” he said.

“For me, it is a dream come true. I have always wanted to prove myself in this team and to play a part in bringing some trophies to the Club.”

Mokwana faces wait for competitive debut

Mokwana may not make his competitive debut for Kaizer Chiefs immediately.

Head coach Fernando da Cruz has confirmed that the new signing needs time to regain his match fitness. He must also become familiar with the team’s playing structure and the demands of playing for the club.

His arrival comes after a period that has taken him from Sekhukhune United to Esperance de Tunis, followed by his loan spell at Al-Hazem, before his return to South Africa and eventual move to Kaizer Chiefs.

The transfer fulfils the opportunity that had first been discussed during his time at Sekhukhune United, when Mokwana was expected to join the Amakhosi instead of moving to Esperance de Tunis.