McCarthy, the son of Kaizer Chiefs legend Fabian, could possibly emerge as one of the club’s Player of the Season nominees.
The 22-year-old left-central defender consistently performed in 31 games, starting as early as pre-season in the Netherlands.
ADEN MCCARTHY’S JOURNEY TO KAIZER CHIEFS’ SENIOR TEAM
McCarthy explained that stepping into senior football felt like a continuation of work already done in previous years.
“Before this season started, I was able to make my debut for the senior team, it’s definitely one to remember,” he told reporters at Naturena.
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“Prior to that I won the DDC and I’ve been in the first-team set-up for the past two, three seasons. It wasn’t anything new to me, I was training and playing games with the reserve team.”
Sensing due interest from overseas, Kaizer Chiefs have since moved fast to secure his future. McCarthy put pen to paper on a new contract until 2029.
OFF-FIELD WORK CREDITED
McCarthy also highlighted the mental side behind his progress. “I feel like what I did off the field helped me stay grounded,” he said.
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“I’ve done boxing for almost a year, I’ve seen a mental coach, so mentally I’d say I’m very strong.”
The defender also worked with performance psychologist Mr Henning before the season began. “Prior to him coming here, I saw him three or four times, to prepare me for the future, what would be out of my control and how I would manage it.”
McCarthy is expected to start again when Kaizer Chiefs face Chippa United this Saturday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. Kick off is at 15:00.
Full list of Betway Premiership fixtures:
- Durban City vs AmaZulu FC at Chatsworth Stadium
- Kaizer Chiefs vs Chippa United at Moses Mabhida Stadium
- Golden Arrows vs TS Galaxy at King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium
- Magesi vs Richards Bay at Seshego Stadium
- Marumo Gallants vs Stellenbosch at Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium
- Orbit College vs Orlando Pirates at Mbombela Stadium
- Sekhukhune United vs Siwelele at Peter Mokaba Stadium.
WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FROM KAIZER CHIEFS NEXT SEASON?
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