South Africa’s Cassius Mailula secures loan move to Belgium’s KV Kortrijk with option to buy

Toronto FC forward Cassius Mailula has joined Belgian side KV Kortrijk on loan until June 2026, with the deal including an option for a permanent transfer.

The 24-year-old South African international makes the switch as he seeks to establish himself in European football after recent spells in both North America and Morocco.

Having signed for Toronto FC in July 2023 and later featuring for Wydad Casablanca, Mailula now faces a new challenge in Belgium’s Challenger Pro League.

A New Chapter in Europe

Toronto FC confirmed on Thursday that Mailula will spend the next two seasons at KV Kortrijk. The arrangement gives the Belgian club the right to purchase the striker outright once the loan term concludes.

For Mailula, the move represents not only an opportunity to prove himself in Europe but also a chance to build consistency after a career path that has already taken him across three continents.

Mailula enjoyed a productive year with Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club, where he registered six goals and seven assists in 36 appearances.

He also made his mark on the global stage during the 2025 Club World Cup, scoring against Al Ain FC. That spell followed his time in Major League Soccer, where he played eight matches for Toronto FC, scoring twice and contributing one assist.

Rise Through South African Football

Mailula’s journey began at Mamelodi Sundowns, one of Africa’s most successful clubs. Emerging from their youth ranks, he burst onto the professional scene with an impressive debut season, scoring 16 goals and adding five assists in just 32 appearances.

His performances quickly established him as one of South Africa’s brightest prospects, praised for his versatility in attack and ability to adapt to multiple forward roles.

His rise did not go unnoticed at international level. Mailula made his debut for South Africa in March 2023 during a crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Liberia.

He has since collected two caps for Bafana Bafana, gaining valuable experience on the continental stage.

Opportunity in Belgium

The switch to KV Kortrijk is seen as a pivotal step in the forward’s career. Belgian football has long been a launching pad for African talent, and the Challenger Pro League offers Mailula the platform to refine his game and showcase his ability in a competitive European environment.

Toronto FC, while parting ways temporarily, will be closely monitoring his progress. The Canadian club remains invested in the striker’s long-term development, but the inclusion of a purchase option underlines that this could evolve into a permanent separation should Kortrijk exercise the clause.

Future Prospects

Mailula’s trajectory highlights both his ambition and his adaptability. From excelling in South Africa to testing himself in Morocco, Canada, and now Belgium, he continues to expand his horizons in pursuit of footballing success.

If he succeeds at Kortrijk, the move could elevate him to a new level, enhancing his standing both at club level and with the South African national team. For now, the striker faces the challenge of adapting quickly to Belgian football and delivering the performances that could cement his future in Europe.