Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns star Lebohang “Cheezboy” Mokoena has given a clear verdict on the rumours linking Patrick “Tito” Maswanganyi to Kaizer Chiefs: it is a firm no from him.

Speaking on SoccerBeat’s Absa Football Fridays, Cheezboy reacted to reports that Amakhosi are monitoring the former Pirates midfielder, who is currently with Bahraini side Al-Khaldiya SC. Speculation around Maswanganyi’s future has been swirling for weeks, including earlier claims (later denied) that his contract had been terminated and suggestions he had dropped down the pecking order at his new club.

Cheezboy was not impressed by the idea of Chiefs moving for him. He described any such move as looking like “desperate measures.” He acknowledged that things may not be going smoothly for Maswanganyi in Bahrain and that the player has always been highly emotional — sometimes struggling to control those emotions. At the same time, he pointed out that Kaizer Chiefs already have their own challenges and what he called an “overloaded ambulance,” meaning the squad has enough issues to manage without adding more risk.

The former winger stressed that the Maswanganyi fans remember at his peak under coach José Riveiro is not the same player available right now. At 28, Tito still has experience, but Cheezboy believes supporters would not get the same sharp, influential version of the player. He also referenced previous off-field and dressing-room concerns that surfaced during Maswanganyi’s time at Orlando Pirates, noting that even coaches had commented on certain aspects of his character.

“For me I wouldn’t go for a player like Tito for Kaizer Chiefs, especially with the current situation that’s happening and the type of player that he is and the current issues off the field,” Cheezboy said in essence. He wished Chiefs good luck if they decide to pursue the deal, but made it clear his personal view is that it would not be the right signing.

There are also practical complications. FIFA rules limit players to representing no more than two clubs in a single season, which could force any move to wait until the end of the current campaign rather than a January switch. A pre-contract for next season remains theoretically possible, but Cheezboy’s message was about suitability rather than timing.

The comments come at a time when Kaizer Chiefs continue to rebuild and strengthen their squad. While some supporters might see Maswanganyi’s creativity and past PSL success as an attractive addition, Cheezboy’s honest assessment is that the risks outweigh the rewards right now. He prefers Chiefs look elsewhere rather than take a chance on a player whose recent form, age curve, and off-pitch profile raise questions.

Source:

https://x.com/soccerbeatza/status/2118699807573151814?s=46