Why are there racial tensions at Chiefs?
Siphiwe Mkhonza, a former player, delves into the reasons behind the emerging racial tensions within Kaizer Chiefs.
Recent reports outline a division among players from black and coloured ethnic groups, compounded by instances of indiscipline.
Siphiwe Mkhonza, a football pundit and former player, sheds light on the potential reasons why there are racial tensions within Kaizer Chiefs.
Reports suggest a divide among players of black and coloured ethnic backgrounds, with instances of indiscipline adding to the concerns.
Allegations have surfaced, with players from the black ethnic group claiming preferential treatment by Chiefs management and differing treatment of coloured players.
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Unpacking racial tensions
“Players feel comfortable clinging to people they can be vulnerable in front of,” Mkhonza told Sports Night Amplified with Andile Ncube.
“The reason it comes across as being a problem is because Chiefs have been struggling for results, that’s why it has plucked this tension.
“So, all these dynamics come out now, that yes, maybe the issue now is coloured players, they group themselves there, black players they group themselves there.”
Having been part of the Amakhosi from 2004 to 2007, Mkhonza highlights the absence of racial issues during that period, despite the diverse player groups.
The success on the field back then contrasts with the current scenario, marked by a trophy drought since 2015, potentially contributing to the shift in dynamics.
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Shift in the wake of trophy drought
“But I can assure now the reason during our time it wasn’t seen is because there were results,” concluded the former defender.
“In our time, we had Rowen Fernandez, Shaun Bartlett, Fabian McCarthy and goalkeeper Emile Baron.
“Yes, they grouped together but that doesn’t mean when they group together during the club’s events, but when it’s training, work we are together.
“But when it’s after the game they do their things on their own, they would go hang out at places like Nando’s.”
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In the 2004/05 season, Mkhonza made a move to Chiefs from Golden Arrows, securing five cups, including a title clinched in a thrilling final day in May 2005.
Notably, Mkhonza’s perspective offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between team dynamics, results, and racial tensions within the iconic Kaizer Chiefs.
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