South African Premier League side Kaiser Chiefs have secured the long-term future of one of their brightest young prospects, Mfundo Vilakazi, by handing the 18-year-old midfielder a contract extension that will keep him at Naturena until 2028.
Vilakazi, who joined the Chiefs youth academy in 2021, has wasted little time making his mark at the club, earning a promotion to the first-team squad earlier this season after impressing at reserve team level.
The naturally gifted attacking midfielder has already made six appearances for the senior side, coming on as a substitute in the Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates as well as a Nedbank Cup clash.
“I’m happy and excited to have a contract with a big Club like Chiefs. It has always been my dream from a young age to play for the senior team and represent Kaizer Chiefs,” an elated Vilakazi said after putting pen to paper on the bumper deal.
“I am looking forward to contributing to the Club and paying back the management for believing in my talent. I thank all the supporters who always push me to do better, I promise not to disappoint.”
Kaizer Chiefs Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr. lauded the club’s latest signing, describing Vilakazi as an “exceptional talent” whose contract extension is a testament to Chiefs’ prowess in youth development.
“We have built an environment that is conducive to producing talent for the senior team, which is fundamental to the ethos of Kaizer Chiefs,” Motaung said.
Kaizer Chiefs currently sit third in the DSTV Premiership table with 30 points from 23 matches, having secured 8 wins, 6 draws and 9 losses so far this season.
With Vilakazi now secured for the long haul, Chiefs fans will be eagerly anticipating the continued rise of one of the hottest young prospects in South African football.