With Kaizer Chiefs preparing to jet off on their European pre-season tour, attention isn’t just on their upcoming matches—it’s also on the players who could be joining their ranks soon.
One name currently sparking debate is that of Angolan striker Laurindo Dilson Maria Aurélio, better known in football circles as Depú. But is he really the right fit?
Depú’s Numbers Don’t Tell a Pretty Story in Europe
On paper, Depú’s most recent club stats aren’t doing him any favors.
The 25-year-old forward had a season to forget at Serbian side Vojvodina, where he played 24 league matches and managed just one assist—and not a single goal.
That’s hardly the kind of output you’d expect from a striker aiming to make waves in the PSL.
A Different Player on the International Stage?
While his European form raises eyebrows, Depú seems to turn on the flair when he’s wearing the Angolan national jersey.
In a recent Cosafa Cup clash against Bafana Bafana, he delivered a performance that had fans talking, proving he might have something more to offer on African soil.
But is a one-off international game enough to outweigh a poor club season?
Chiefs Fans Share Mixed Feelings
Not everyone is sold on Depú. Some fans have cheekily suggested that striker Fiston Mayele, another target, would only come to South Africa to enjoy Amapiano music and a holiday.
That sentiment might extend to Depú too, especially given his lackluster goal-scoring form.
There’s plenty of skepticism around whether he’d truly add firepower to the Amakhosi front line.
European Tour Kicks Off in Style
Meanwhile, it’s not all transfer talk. Chiefs are set to begin their European pre-season tour on July 3rd, traveling to the Netherlands—home of football legends like Dennis Bergkamp and Wesley Sneijder.
The tour runs until July 19th and promises to be a valuable experience for the squad.
Young Blood Join the Travelling Squad
Fans were pleasantly surprised to see George Matlou included in the travel list, but the real buzz is around Thulani Mabaso, a young holding midfielder who’s caught the eye at Naturena.
Left-footed and full of promise, Mabaso will be one to watch closely during the tour.
Meet the Next Generation at Naturena
Kaizer Chiefs are clearly thinking long-term too.
Alongside Mabaso, several fresh faces from the youth setup are getting a chance to impress on the European stage.
It’s a big step for these youngsters and could be a defining moment in their early careers.