The 22-year-old Kaizer Chiefs left-footed central defender has signed a three-year contract with the Sabah.
According to journalist Lorenz Kohler, the transfer fee is worth more than R7 million. It excludes potential add-ons that could further increase the value of the deal.
KAIZER CHIEFS CONFIRM MCCARTHY EXIT
Following the reports, Amakhosi announced the transfer on Tuesday, revealing that an agreement had been reached with Sabah FK for the player’s release.
The club also expressed confidence that McCarthy will continue his development in Europe while representing the Kaizer Chiefs brand on a bigger stage.
“We can confirm that we have agreed to release Aden after being approached by Sabah FK,” the Soweto giants said.
“We are proud that he will compete in the qualifying round of next season’s UEFA Champions League. Aden will fly the Amakhosi flag high in Europe. We are excited to see him grow on the world stage,” said Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr.
With Sabah winning the Azerbaijan league title last season, McCarthy will have the opportunity to compete in the UEFA Champions League.
ADEN MCCARTHY’S RISE FROM NATURENA TO EUROPE
Born on 4 December 2003, McCarthy was introduced to top-level football from an early age. He is the son of former Kaizer Chiefs and South Africa defender Fabian McCarthy.
He joined the club’s academy at Naturena and progressed through the various age groups before eventually captaining the reserve team in the DStv Diski Challenge.
McCarthy made his first-team debut for Kaizer Chiefs under co-coach and Khalil Ben Youssef in May 2025. He and his father became the fifth father-and-son pairing to represent the Amakhosi senior side.
McCarthy went on to make 33 appearances in all competitions and scored twice as Kaizer Chiefs. He helped secure a third-place finish in the Betway Premiership and qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup.
