Kaizer Chiefs find themselves grappling with yet another troublesome player in their ranks. Despite bringing in seven new faces during the offseason, including the illustrious seven-time PSL winner Gastón Sirino, the club is now dealing with off-field issues that could see the Uruguayan star heading for the exit.
Sirino has quickly made an impact on the field, contributing three assists and one goal in just six league appearances. However, his behavior off the pitch is starting to create ripples of discontent within the Kaizer Chiefs Village.
Sources within the camp have revealed that Sirino has been accused of feigning injuries and skipping training sessions, only to reappear as matchday approaches. This pattern of behavior has reportedly frustrated the club’s management and head coach Nasreddine Nabi, who demand a high level of professionalism from their players.
The 33-year-old’s actions have already led to disciplinary measures, and the club has made it clear that such conduct will not be tolerated. While there is some empathy for the pressures faced by players, Sirino’s behavior is seen as unacceptable and damaging to his standing within the squad.
One more slip-up and it could be strike three for Sirino. It’s likely that Coach Nabi has had stern conversations with him, offering chances for redemption. However, continued ‘sickies’ could lead to more severe consequences, possibly even termination of his contract.
In the meantime, Kaizer Chiefs have their eyes on top transfer target Asenele Velebayi. The young talent from Cape Town Spurs has expressed his ambitions to play at a higher level, compete for trophies, and secure a spot in the Bafana Bafana squad. At 21, Velebayi is focused on his current job but is clearly thinking about his future in bigger teams.
“My peers, like Rushwin Dortley, have done well. I don’t see what will stop me from reaching those levels or surpassing them. Right now, I’m focused on my job at Cape Town Spurs, but that doesn’t mean I don’t think about the future,” Velebayi told FARPost.
His aspirations mirror those of many young players looking to rise through the ranks and make a name for themselves both domestically and internationally. As Velebayi aims to follow in the footsteps of his successful peers, Kaizer Chiefs may find in him the commitment and professionalism that Sirino is currently lacking.