Kaizer Chiefs recently confirmed Mokwana’s arrival. The KwaMhlanga-born star joined the Soweto giants are leaving Tunisian giants Esperance.
The Bafana Bafana international has had quite a journey since then, moving abroad to play for Esperance before also spending time in Saudi Arabia.
MNTAMBO EXPLAINS WHAT Kaizer CHIEFS ARE GETTING
Elias Mntambo knows the player from their days together at Sekhukhune, where he was captain and had the chance to watch Mokwana develop.
Speaking on The CARWASH Podcast, the former midfielder believes the winger has the right qualities to do well at Chiefs. However, he wants the club’s supporters to give him time instead of putting too much pressure on him from the beginning.
“No individual will solve the team’s problems. Let’s not put Elias Mokwana under immense pressure. Yes, football in itself is a pressure game. And pressure is a privilege. It means something is expected of you,” Mntambo said.
Mntambo recalled that Mokwana was not the finished product when he arrived at Sekhukhune. He already had pace and could take on defenders, but there were parts of his game that needed attention.
What impressed Mntambo most was the winger’s attitude towards learning.
“And I’ve seen him grow at Sekhukhune. You know, [he] came in rough, you know, that rough diamond, you know, speed, dribble, but he’d lose so many balls. But one thing about him is that he’s coachable. He’s a sponge. He can absorb, he can listen. And that’s what’s going to take him far.”
The former Sekhukhune captain also believes Mokwana must keep his feet on the ground at Naturena.
“I think one thing with Kaizer Chiefs, they found a player that is hardworking, a player that is humble. I think where he comes from, he comes from humble beginnings. He knows to be the lowest of the lowest of life. So I hope that he still has that within him.
ELIAS MOKWANA CAN ALSO CREATE FOR OTHERS
Mntambo also spoke about an aspect of Mokwana’s game that he believes Chiefs supporters should appreciate.
The winger is not only interested in scoring goals or taking the attention away from his teammates. He can also provide opportunities for other players.
“When I was at Sekhukhune, I would never make the box and not get a cutback from a Mokwana. So more than him getting the shine, he is a player that can also serve. And I think Kaizer Chiefs have found themselves a gem in that position.”
Mokwana will have competition for a place in the wide attacking positions, with Mduduzi Shabalala, Mfundo Vilakazi and Langelihle Phili also available.