The Kaizer Chiefs star from Durban says patience and mental strength helped him fight through a difficult season at Naturena.
Cele joined Amakhosi on January 27, 2025. He signed a three-and-a-half-year contract as a free agent following his departure from Russian side Fakel Voronezh. Arriving with significant experience from his time in Portugal, Poland, and Russia.
KAIZER CHIEFS STAR THABO CELE FOCUSED ON STRONG FINISH
The 29-year-old has battled injuries and inconsistency during his second Betway Premiership campaign, limiting his involvement for Amakhosi across competitions.
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Cele has only managed 16 league appearances this seaso. He also missed a large part of Kaizer Chiefs’ CAF Confederation Cup journey. Competition for places also affected his game time.
Despite the setbacks, the midfielder has returned to the squad in recent weeks and featured in Amakhosi’s last four matches. This included the 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns in Tshwane.
Speaking to the club’s media department before the Sundowns clash, Cele admitted it has not been an easy period both professionally and personally.
“Of course, like I said, me as an individual also it’s not been easy because you want to reach a certain level and a certain standard,” said Cele.
“But when things are not working out for you, you need to remain calm and just keep on working like what I’ve been doing.”
The former South African junior international says his focus never changed, even while spending long spells on the sidelines.
Competition in midfield has also remained intense at Kaizer Chiefs this season with Siphesihle Ndlovu and Lebohang Maboe among the players fighting for starting places.
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THABO CELE ON MENTAL STRUGGLE
Cele explained that staying mentally ready for opportunities has been one of the biggest challenges during his absence from the team.
“So, me coming back and trying to help the team in these last few games is something that I’ve been working towards, since I’ve been out for so many games,” he said.
“So, it’s a mental thing, to always be up for a comeback all the time you know. So that’s football. That’s how it goes. Sometimes you’re down, sometimes you’re up and then you’re down and try to bring yourself back.
“So that’s what I’ve been trying to do and I’m still at it, you know what I mean.”
The midfielder will now hope he can stay fit and continue contributing during the crucial closing weeks of the season.
