Former Chiefs star Dumisani Zuma. Image: @KaraboRithuri_ / Twitter
Chiefs commended for how Dumisani Zuma saga was handled
Kaizer Chiefs have been credited for their ‘understanding’ related to the transgressions of former player Dumisani Zuma.
Former Chiefs star Dumisani Zuma. Image: @KaraboRithuri_ / Twitter
Earlier this year, Kaizer Chiefs announced the immediate suspension of midfielder Dumisani Zuma for the second time this season. Without going into details, Chiefs stated that Zuma, this time around, had breached the club’s code of conduct.
He was first suspended in November 2021 following his arrest for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.
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Zuma then had his contract terminated by Chiefs in June, bringing an end to his troubled time at the club. The 28-year-old had a year left on his contract with Chiefs but the club decided to cut ties with him for disciplinary reasons.
Upon reflection, Zuma did thank Chiefs for everything they had done for him over the past five years, saying the experience and all the lessons he learnt are thanks to the club’s criticism, which contributed to his growth.
He has now linked up with AmaZulu, where he is hoping to make a much-needed fresh start aimed at reinvigorating his career.
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In an interview with Marawa Sports Worldwide, representative Basia Michaels of the QT Sports agency said Amakhosi ultimatley deserve credit for the manner in which they found a way forward for the player.
“It wasn’t difficult. I have to commend the Motaungs — Bobby, Kaizer Jr — for understanding where we came from,” Michaels said, as quoted by TimesLive.
“Yes, Dumisani has had transgressions. There are a lot more footballers out there who have had even worse. It just becomes about the spotlight. And when the spotlight is shone on something like that we [agents] now have to hug a little harder, protect a little more and probably cuddle and shield a bit better than when the spotlight isn’t on him.
“It becomes a conversation. And I think it’s important for people to realise that, yes I manage footballers but I also have relationships with club owners. And when you have good enough relationships all around it is for the benefit of all of us. There’s no way you can’t sit down and have a conversation.”
Below you can watch what Zuma had to say in part of a recent interview published by FARPost.
“I think it’s very important because from what happened at Kaizer Chiefs, a lot has been said, so I think it’s time for me to prove people wrong,” he explained, as also quoted by iDiski Times.
“And focus on my game and bring back the passion of the sport I play, and do well. Everyone has family and friends so it’s very important for me to work hard here and get back to my best again.
“I would say there’s something I could do, I control what I can control. Whatever has been said doesn’t bother me and I know what happened and I don’t want to talk about it because I am at a new team now. There’s something I want to achieve.
“Unfortunately the sport will play it like that, once there’s something off the pitch, people get to talk about them a lot that is happening in the field. All I can say is that I will work hard and gain the trust again of the supporters, coaches and everyone.
“I can say this season I will try with everything I have to be back on form and enjoy my football and stay away from trouble.”
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DUMISANI ZUMA PREVIOUSLY SHARED THIS MESSAGE TO KAIZER CHIEFS
I would like to extend my warmest gratitude for the love and unwavering support I have received over the years since joining Kaizer Chiefs.
To the KCFC management, technical team, players and the fans at large, thank you for awarding me the opportunity to play for such a prestigious club.
You have installed in me the confidence to showcase my talents in front of millions of South Africans who love our beautiful game,” continued Zuma.
The experience I have gained and all the lessons I’ve learnt are thanks to your criticism which has undoubtedly contributed immensely to my growth.
I look forward to my next journey, as I take the learnings from the past five years into the future with me.
