The Grit of Professional Football: Comparisons, Expectations and Individuality

Former Kaizer Chiefs player Willard Katsande advises new team member Sibongiseni Mthethwa to focus on creating his own identity and playing style instead of trying to fill Katsande’s shoes. Katsande stresses the importance of individuality and not losing one’s identity in attempts to mimic others. Mthethwa should not be derailed by comparisons and should concentrate on his unique capabilities. Katsande believes in Mthethwa’s potential as a top-tier player and encourages him to carve his own path in Chiefs’ history, not as the next Katsande, but as the inaugural Mthethwa.

Katsande’s Perspective: Creating Individual Identity

Former Kaizer Chiefs player Willard Katsande advises new team member Sibongiseni Mthethwa to focus on carving his own niche and playing style instead of attempting to fill Katsande’s shoes. Katsande stresses the importance of embracing individuality and not losing one’s identity in attempts to mimic others. Mthethwa should not let comparisons derail him from his trajectory and should concentrate on his unique capabilities.

In the intensely competitive realm of professional football, contrasts drawn between fresh recruits and preceding legends are quite commonplace. Such a situation is currently faced by Sibongiseni Mthethwa, the latest entrant to Kaizer Chiefs. Former Chiefs player and seasoned football professional, Willard Katsande, however, advises Mthethwa to remain true to himself.

Katsande, a pivotal component of the Chiefs’ midfield until his exit in July 2021, holds a revered position in the annals of the club. His departure, characterized by his aggressive playing style and affectionately termed ‘Salt and Vinegar’, left an apparent gaping hole in the team. Enter Mthethwa, a former luminary from Stellenbosch, who joined the Chiefs in September, instantly being hailed as the successor to Katsande.

Katsande’s Perspective: Creating Individual Identity

However, Katsande sees things differently. In a recent conversation with the Sowetan, Katsande responded to these comparisons. He emphasized the need for Mthethwa to carve out his own niche and playing style, rather than attempting to fill his shoes. This counsel stems from Katsande’s personal journey. Upon joining the Chiefs, he was resolute about being himself, and not trying to imitate the likes of players such as Tinashe Nengomasha.

Katsande reminisces, “When I stepped into Chiefs, I did so as Willard Katsande, showcasing my skills without attempting to mirror the earlier guys.” He stressed that Mthethwa should disregard comparisons, concentrate on crafting his unique legacy, and remain true to himself.

Mthethwa’s Early Impression: Carving His Path

Sibongiseni Mthethwa, a 29-year-old Bafana Bafana international, has already made a discernible mark on the team. He has played in four out of five games he has been selected for Chiefs this season. Katsande has been tracking Mthethwa’s performance, expressing admiration for his early contributions to Chiefs.

Katsande further suggested that Mthethwa should not feel daunted by his records or achievements. “He should not be overawed by my accomplishments. He’s a superb defensive midfielder and must always bear in mind that Kaizer Chiefs wouldn’t have enlisted his services if he wasn’t gifted,” he said.

Lessons from Katsande: Embracing Individuality

Katsande highlighted a trap that many newcomers fall into – losing their identity in attempts to mimic others. He affirmed that Mthethwa’s talent is exceptional, and he should not alter himself to match Katsande’s profile. Instead, he should adhere to his style of play and not let comparisons derail him from his trajectory.

Katsande, showing faith in Mthethwa’s abilities, stated, “I firmly believe Ox is a top-tier player who can assist Chiefs in achieving even greater success.” He strongly backs Mthethwa’s potential as a defensive midfielder. As a final word of encouragement, Katsande challenged, “I hold him in high regard as a No 6. But he should not be contrasted with me or any previous successful defensive midfielder.”

Katsande’s advice is unambiguous and succinct. Mthethwa, like any other player, should concentrate on his individuality and unique capabilities. With the world of football as spectators, Mthethwa stands poised to etch his unique journey into Chiefs’ history, distinguished from Katsande’s – not as the next Katsande, but as the inaugural Mthethwa.

1. Who is Willard Katsande and what advice did he give to Sibongiseni Mthethwa?

Willard Katsande is a former Kaizer Chiefs player and seasoned football professional who advised new team member Sibongiseni Mthethwa to focus on creating his own identity and playing style instead of trying to fill Katsande’s shoes. Katsande stresses the importance of individuality and not losing one’s identity in attempts to mimic others.

2. What does Katsande believe is important for Mthethwa in his journey at Chiefs?

Katsande believes that Mthethwa should not be derailed by comparisons and should concentrate on his unique capabilities. He should not let comparisons with Katsande derail him from his trajectory.

3. Who is Sibongiseni Mthethwa and how has he started his journey at Chiefs?

Sibongiseni Mthethwa is a 29-year-old Bafana Bafana international and the latest entrant to Kaizer Chiefs. He has already played in four out of five games he has been selected for Chiefs this season.

4. What does Katsande think of Mthethwa’s early contributions to the Chiefs?

Katsande has been tracking Mthethwa’s performance and has expressed admiration for his early contributions to Chiefs. He believes that Mthethwa is a superb defensive midfielder and that Kaizer Chiefs wouldn’t have enlisted his services if he wasn’t gifted.

5. What trap does Katsande highlight that many newcomers fall into?

Katsande highlights the trap of losing one’s identity in attempts to mimic others. He advises Mthethwa to adhere to his style of play and not let comparisons derail him from his trajectory.

6. What final words of encouragement did Katsande give to Mthethwa?

Katsande challenged Mthethwa to create his own legacy and not be contrasted with Katsande or any previous successful defensive midfielder. He showed faith in Mthethwa’s abilities and firmly believes that he is a top-tier player who can assist Chiefs in achieving greater success.