Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana defender Thatayaone Ditlhokwe is believed to have requested to leave the club.
According to Soccer Laduma, Ditlhokwe is believed to prefer to leave Chiefs, either on loan or permanently, based on how things are going for him under coach Nasreddine Nabi so far.
The international player foresees only limited playing opportunities at Amakhosi this season. So, insiders added that the former SuperSport United defender has requested a move to a club where he can play regularly.
Sources discussed how the coach prefers new signings Inacio Miguel, Rushwin Dortley, and Bradley Cross for positions where Ditlhokwe could play, with Given Msimango providing cover in central defence, it is not easy to imagine where Ditlhokwe could fit in unless players are ruled out with injury and suspension.
“For now it’s clear that he won’t have much time to play as the coach has set up his preferred defenders whether as central defenders or left back where TT (Ditlhokwe) can also play.
“Inacio Miguel and Rushwin Dortley are the preferred pairing in central defence while injured Bongani Sam and Bradley Cross are set to exchange times at left back and that’s what is making him not happy and requesting to leave either on loan or permanently depending on what the team feels.
“He has made it clear to management that he would like to go where he can play regularly,” the Siya source close to Chiefs stated.
A second source highlighted that Ditlhokwe’s primary motivation for seeking regular playing time is his role as the captain of the Botswana national team so he doesn’t want his situation at the club to negatively impact their qualification hopes for the Africa Cup of Nations.
“He is worried about his place in the national team and that is pushing him to at least be at a club where he can play and stay active and fit for the national team.”
“That’s what is really pushing him to look for a move away from Chiefs at the moment. He has made it clear to management that he would like to move and play regularly,” the second source observed.
The 26-year-old defender joined Chiefs from SuperSport United last season and signed a four-year contract until June 2027.
Last season, he did play many matches but with Amakhosi making several new signings at the back, Ditlhokwe is no longer the preferred choice.
Dithlokwe’s request underscores the challenges players face when competing for limited playing time.
As the captain of the Botswana national team, Dithlokwe’s need for regular game time is crucial for maintaining his form and fitness.
