Kaizer Chiefs Icon Tsepo Masilela Weighs In on Yusuf Maart’s Appointment as Captain
After a season that saw Amakhosi cycle through four different captains, Yusuf Maart has now been appointed as the official leader under new coach Nasreddine Nabi. Last season, Given Msimanga wore the armband towards the end of Cavin Johnson’s tenure, while Maart was one of the captains earlier in the season.
On the SoccerBeat podcast, Masilela shared his thoughts on Maart’s leadership role, emphasizing that wearing the captain’s armband does not guarantee a starting position. “At some point, Itu was captain but wasn’t getting game time,” Masilela noted. “In modern football, being captain doesn’t automatically secure your place in the starting eleven. It’s about performance.”
Masilela also commented on why Maart was chosen, telling Cape Town Spurs midfielder Michael Morton that both Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr. and Coach Nabi saw potential in Maart. “I believe both the coach and the management saw qualities in Maart that led to his selection,” he said. “He’s been with the team for three seasons and brings valuable experience.”
Highlighting Maart’s attributes, Masilela praised his technical skill and leadership qualities: “He’s good at playing long and diagonal balls, and he’s excellent at holding the ball when building from the back. He’s selfless, a fighter, and brings balance to the team.”
Masilela sees Maart as a crucial figure for the club moving forward, pointing out his ability to inspire and stabilize the team on the field.
