AmaZulu FC midfielder Hendrick “Pule” Ekstein has opened up on why he returned to his former club Kaizer Chiefs to apologise following his controversial exit.
The 35-year-old made an emotional visit to Naturena, where he sought forgiveness, particularly from chairman Kaizer Motaung.
Ekstein, who is currently enjoying a career revival under Arthur Zwane at AmaZulu, admitted that the way he left Chiefs in 2019 left a “bitter taste” that he needed to resolve for his own peace of mind.
His departure nearly six years ago shocked Amakhosi supporters, as he was one of the club’s fan favourites who had progressed through the development ranks.
However, his contract was mutually terminated just days before the 2019 Nedbank Cup final against TS Galaxy, a match Chiefs went on to lose 1-0.
Speaking on Radio 2000, Ekstein revealed that the split was purely financial.
“To be honest, we didn’t agree with the figures on the contract. I felt that I deserved more because we were on our way to the final,” he said.
Despite the disagreement, Ekstein chose to make amends.
“After everything, I also went to the Kaizer Chiefs Village to apologise to the chairman,” he added.
The midfielder said returning to make peace was his way of showing gratitude to the club that gave him his breakthrough.
“I made peace, and I also think they are at peace. So I am fine, and I also think the team is fine. The way I left the team, I think it was not the right way… so I had to go and apologise.”
Now settled at AmaZulu, Ekstein says he is focused on the present and hopes to finish his career at the club.