Thabo Cele puts Kaizer Chiefs exit behind him after Sundowns move

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Thabo Cele says he has focused on the future after his unexpected departure from Kaizer Chiefs.

Cele joined Amakhosi as a marquee signing in January 2025, arriving on a free transfer from Russia after a prolonged pursuit by the Soweto club.

But the 29-year-old’s time at Chiefs ended suddenly after coach Fernando da Cruz indicated that he was no longer part of his plans. Shortly after his contract was terminated, Cele appeared at Sundowns’ Chloorkop base.

Speaking publicly for the first time since the events unfolded, Cele suggested he had moved on from the disappointment and was concentrating on his new opportunity.

“For me, football is like life. It’s a journey that has difficulties. Going through what I went through to be here, it’s still the same thing I’ve been pushing myself through, focusing on what’s coming next. What came next was me being at a club like Sundowns and being here today, and I am so grateful,” he said.

Cele said he dealt with the change by refusing to become distracted by events away from the pitch.

“For me, it’s been the same thing: to keep on working hard and focus on yourself, and forget the distractions that are outside. Since growing up, you always wanted to find yourself and wanted to be in this kind of position, so me being here is massive and also a motivation to go to the next level.”

The midfielder has already collected two trophies during his short spell with Sundowns. The club’s MTN8 triumph before the international break followed success in the African-Asia Pacific Cup.

Cele described his involvement with the South African champions as a blessing, while highlighting the team’s ambition.

“It’s a blessing to be part of this team because it’s a team that’s always looking for more. We went into the game looking forward to winning the final because it’s been a while since we won the MTN8, so it’s a blessing to be part of this team.”

He also spoke positively about the intensity brought by Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso.