Elias Mokwana has revealed that his long-awaited move to Kaizer Chiefs could have happened in 2024, with the winger admitting that a transfer to Naturena was initially expected before his career took him to Tunisia.
The 26-year-old has finally secured a move to the Soweto giants, fulfilling a childhood ambition after spells with Sekhukhune United and Esperance.
Mokwana’s arrival represents a significant addition to the Chiefs attack as the club looks to strengthen its squad and end a prolonged wait for major silverware. However, the winger has disclosed that his association with Amakhosi could have begun much earlier.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Mokwana explained that Chiefs had expressed an interest in signing him while he was still at Sekhukhune, but circumstances prevented the deal from materialising.
“I grew up supporting Amakhosi. I first heard that they were interested in me when I was at Sekhukhune. Instead of going to Esperance, I was supposed to come here, but unfortunately some obstacles prevented it from happening at the time,” he said.
Rather than joining his boyhood club, Mokwana moved to Tunisia in 2024, gaining further experience before eventually securing the opportunity to return to South Africa and wear the famous gold and black.
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He also described the emotional moment when he received confirmation that Chiefs wanted to bring him to Naturena, revealing that his mother was among the first people he contacted.
“I was sitting with my sisters, and the first thing I did was phone my mother to share the good news with her. I can’t explain the feeling exactly. I’m excited. It’s a very nice feeling. This is a good place with good people, and I am very happy to be here.”
For Mokwana, however, the move represents more than the fulfilment of a personal ambition. He wants to make a meaningful contribution to the club’s fortunes.
“For me, it is a dream come true. I have always wanted to prove myself in this team and to play a part in bringing some trophies to the Club.”