Kaizer Chiefs legend Siphiwe Tshabalala is excited to work with Nedbank Cup as an ambassador, he also speaks about the trophy drought at Naturena.
The dreadlocked Chiefs legend also touches on money-related matters as he partners with the financial institution, Nedbank.
Nicknamed Shabba, the Soweto-born legend believes this season’s Ke Yona edition has been a great one so far and credits the sponsors, Nedbank.
In addition, the 2010 FIFA World Cup campaigner with Bafana Bafana shares an important message to young and current footballers, on why saving money is key.
A former Nedbank Cup winner with Chiefs, Tshabalala also hopes Amakhosi will turn the corner and restore the glory days.
TSHABLALA ON CHIEFS TROPHY DROUGHT AFTER NEDBANK CUP EXIT
The lucrative competition is known for producing shocking results where unknown teams get a chance to meet the so-called Goliath.
Under interim coach Cavin Johnson, Chiefs failed to reach the Last 16 of the Nedbank Cup after the defeat to minnows, Milford FC, the Soweto giants are in their ninth season without a trophy.
While the Amakhosi family is not happy, the Chiefs legend still has faith in the current team, saying they can turn things around.
“It’s been tough for the team, almost 10 years without a trophy or silverware,” Tshabalala tells The South African about Chiefs.
“You know Chiefs are a big team and with a rich history, there’s a culture of winning and winning trophies.
“Each generation has a task of making sure you put a smile on the faces of the Amakhosi faithful.
“You bring trophies to the Naturena, having gone 10 years is a worrying factor.
“Everyone is not happy because Chiefs are used to winning at least a single trophy in a season.
“Even when they are not playing well but a trophy is a guarantee. I still have faith in the team and in the players.
“And hopefully soon things will turn around. The team can go back to the glory days of winning trophies.”
TSHABALALA ON FINANCIAL AND WORKING WITH NEDBANK CUP
Working with Nedbank as an ambassador is a massive opportunity for Tshabalala and he has a few words to the youngsters when it comes to money.
“My advice to the youngsters is to be teachable regarding life and money matters, remain humble and ask as many questions about being a professional,” adds the former Chiefs skipper.
“The life of a professional footballer, it’s not only about the life on the field about off the field.
“It gives you a platform to build a solid brand that will help you post your career.
“Try and find a balance, do your best to showcase your talent on the field but don’t forget you’re also a role model off the field of play.
“Be aware that people look up to you, that responsibility comes with greater things.
“From the day I started playing professionally, that’s the day I started planning about life after football.
“I have seen before, the challenges that footballers went through, go through, and are still going through post-retirement.
“So, it also gives you a chance to associate with other big brands and that becomes a career for you.”
After leaving Amakhosi and going to ply his trade in Turkey with BB Erzurumspor, Shabba made his return and featured for AmaZulu – he speaks about his future plans.
HAS TSHABALALA RETIRED, THE CHIEFS LEGEND SPEAKS ON HIS FUTURE
Speaking to The South African, the Chiefs legend with an educated left-foot concludes that the transition has been smooth.
“Okay my status, it’s still on green meaning I am still active. But I have already made my plans post-retirement,” concludes the 39-year-old.
“The transition has been very great. I have businesses that I have invested in.
“While I was playing and some are good and some are not so good.
“I also have a career as an ambassador for brands such as Nedbank Cup and others.
“So, life has been great. I am grateful.”
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