Orlando Pirates veteran midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula has expressed his belief that young talent Azola Tshobeni is on the verge of becoming a key player for the Buccaneers.
Tshobeni, who was promoted to the senior team during the 2021/22 season under former coach Josef Zinnbauer, has had a journey filled with both opportunities and challenges.
After making several appearances as a teenager, the diminutive midfielder spent the next two seasons out on loan at JDR Stars in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, gaining valuable experience.
This season, under head coach Jose Riveiro, Tshobeni was recalled to the Pirates senior squad and has been featuring off the bench, showcasing his undeniable talent. Despite his limited minutes, his ability has been on full display, earning praise from his senior teammates, including the experienced Makhaula.
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Speaking to the media at the Nedbank Cup launch in Sandton on Thursday, Makhaula tipped the 22-year-old Tshobeni to follow in the footsteps of other young players like Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota, and Thabiso Sesane, who have established themselves as regulars in the Pirates first team.
"He's a talented boy, a good passer and he's just waiting for his chance," Makhaula said. "We always encourage each other because we play in the same position. It's always good to see a boy that you can say one day when I retire, I'll be able to say I made a huge contribution to his career."
Makhaula, who has been a vital figure in the Pirates midfield for years, expressed great confidence in Tshobeni's potential. He believes that it's only a matter of time before Tshobeni earns a starting role at the club.
"I think by this year Azola will be playing and I'll just be there to pick up the pieces. He is one of the best and I can't wait to see him start the games," he said.
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