The reports have been everywhere; Andile Jali has all but left Mamelodi Sundowns. Kaizer Chiefs could be his next possible destination. Kaizer Chiefs could sign Andile Jali as a free agent. Let’s look at how the 33-year-old defensive midfielder could fit at Amakhosi.
Jali’s Departure from Sundowns and Link to Chiefs
As previously reported by The South African, Jali was fast approaching the end of his contract with Sundowns when he was reportedly found at training under the influence of alcohol. The event, which was followed by his disappearance from team selections since March, seems to have been a clear catalyst for his departure. Meanwhile, the Matatiele-born midfielder remains linked with a move to Chiefs.
Following the departure of Njabulo Blom to America’s St.Louis in December last year, Amakhosi are yet to fully fill the void in the number 6 role. Both Siyethemba Sithebe and Samkelo Zwane have blown hot and cold, and a team competing against Orlando Pirates and SuperSport United for a CAF Champions League spot can not really afford that in midfield.
Jali’s Qualities and Potential Impact
Jali, a four-time DStv Premiership winner with European, Bafana Bafana, and CAF experience with Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, has all the experience, character, and leadership to perform week in and week out. Additionally, Jali’s qualities will allow the likes of Yusuf Maart and Mduduzi Tshabalala the ideal freedom to attack while also protecting the likes of Zitha Kwinika, Njabulo Ngcobo, Edmilson Dove, Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, and Given Msimango in central defence.
In the meantime, Amakhosi will decide if they want a plug-and-play number six with three more seasons in his legs or go for another player that requires time to adapt at a big club. With Jali waiting in the wings, the future looks bright for Kaizer Chiefs.
