It truly runs in the blood here. Kaizer Chiefs are home to Fabian McCarthy’s two sons, Aden and Austin.
Aden is a senior Amakhosi star, while Austin is still developing his career in the U14S.
FABIAN MCCARTHY ON HIS SONS AT KAIZER CHIEFS
Aden, the elder of the two, has broken into the senior team this season after three patient years in the reserve ranks.
The left-footed central defender led the DStv Diski Challenge side to their first title last season and went on to impress during Amakhosi’s pre-season tour in the Netherlands, where he stood out against top Dutch opposition.
The 21-year-old, now a regular in the Betway Premiership, has featured in nine of Kaizer Chiefs’ 14 matches this campaign, missing just two through injury.
His younger brother Austin, meanwhile, is following closely in his footsteps as a solid performer in the club’s under-14 side, and yes, he’s also a centre-back.
NO COACHING FROM DAD
As a former central defender and captain at Kaizer Chiefs, does Fabian actually coach them?
“Believe it or not, I don’t coach my kids. I’m just a fan,” he said on the SuperSport Schools podcast. “I’ll criticise them here and there, but I always try to be honest and transparent.”
He explained that he often reminds his sons to judge their performances for themselves before waiting for others to give feedback. According to McCarthy, Aden knows when he’s played well, and that self-awareness is key to growing in football.
More than anything, the Kaizer Chiefs legend said his focus is on his sons’ happiness. He wants them to enjoy both football and school, learn from mistakes, and take responsibility for their choices.
McCarthy often tells them that football can give as much as it takes, and that respect for the game will carry them even after they hang up their boots.
“It’s not about me, it’s about them,” he added. “Unfortunately, they’re both defenders, but they enjoy it, and that’s all that matters,” he concluded with a laugh.
Coming up for Aden is a trip to KwaZulu-Natal. Amakhosi take on Durban City in the Betway Premiership on Friday night. Kick off will be at 19:00 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.