Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Cole Alexander has revealed the real reason behind his decision to take a pay cut when he joined Amakhosi.
The retired midfielder has said the chance to represent South Africa’s most famous club was far more valuable than any amount of money.
COLE ALEXANDER LEFT INDIA FOR KAIZER CHIEFS
Before moving to the Glamour Boys from Odisha FC in India, the Mitchells Plain-born midfielder was earning bigger money in Asia.
But when Amakhosi came calling, Alexander realised no salary figure could compete with the prestige of joining the Soweto giants.
Opening up in an interview via the Soccer Beat podcast, Alexander shared how the move touched him and his father.
“When the [Kaizer] Chiefs opportunity came up, I could not believe I was getting such a big opportunity,” Cole said.
“I thought yho, this is a big deal. In my mind and heart, Chiefs and Pirates are the biggest teams in Africa. So to play for any of them is a big deal. When I told my father about it, he was like ‘Chiefs, Chiefs.’”
The midfielder admitted that while his salary at Kaizer Chiefs was good, it was still less than what he earned in India, yet the honour was unmatched.
“I had a good salary at Chiefs, but it was still not as much as I was getting in India,” he added. “But the fact is what comes with Chiefs [beyond the money]. That is what pulled me. Making my family happy, making my community happy.
“It was a big deal, not just for me but for those people. It is a decision I don’t regret. Chiefs still help with my father’s medical needs. I am still able to call them, and the help is available.”
RESPECT FOR AMAKHOSI MANAGEMENT
Alexander said he will forever remain a fan of Kaizer Chiefs, praising the club’s world-class management and the special leadership of its chairman. He added that, having played in Sweden and Asia, the way Amakhosi treat their players truly stands out.
“They treat you very, very well. This is what chairmen and bosses must do. They must make you a fan for life,” the former Ajax Cape Town, Polokwane City, SuperSport United and Bidvest Wits midfielder added.
