Langelihle Phili says he is determined to help Kaizer Chiefs win trophies after completing his move from Stellenbosch this week.
The 21-year-old winger has joined Amakhosi as part of a deal that saw Ashely Du Preez and Given Msimango move in the opposite direction to Stellenbosch. Phili was named Stellies’ Player of the Season after making 46 appearances for the club, scoring seven goals and providing two assists.
He is now looking forward to starting a new chapter with the Glamour Boys and hopes his time at Chiefs will bring both success and lasting memories.
“Thank you for choosing me. I am finally here and would love nothing more than to win trophies and make great memories with you,” Phili told the club’s official website.
The move has particular significance for Phili because he grew up supporting Kaizer Chiefs. He said joining the Soweto club was an easy decision, with his family’s connection to Amakhosi playing an important part.
“I had two seasons with Stellenbosch and now I am overjoyed to be here at Chiefs,” he said.
“The first thing that came to mind was my grandma, who has sadly passed away. She supported Kaizer Chiefs and I always used to watch them with her when I was young.
“Everyone at home supports Amakhosi, so I thought it would be a good move for me to join the team I grew up supporting. Being here feels like my dream has really come true.
“I can’t wait to meet everybody and start training with the rest of the team and the coaching staff.”
Phili could make his Kaizer Chiefs debut on Sunday, when the club host Golden Arrows in the MTN8 quarter-final at FNB Stadium. The match is scheduled to begin at 18:00.
His arrival gives Chiefs another attacking option as they prepare for their cup campaign, while the player will be hoping to make an immediate impression after being recognised as Stellenbosch’s leading performer last season.
Phili’s two seasons with Stellenbosch produced 46 appearances and a return of seven goals and two assists. Those performances helped earn him the move to Kaizer Chiefs, where he will now look to establish himself and contribute to the club’s pursuit of trophies.
The youngster’s first match could therefore come against Golden Arrows, with the MTN8 quarter-final providing an early opportunity for him to begin creating the memories he has spoken about.
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