Kaizer Chiefs legend Brian Baloyi has revealed that the club turned down his recommendation to sign Oscarine Masuluke during his trial spell in 2017.
Speaking on iDiski Dine, Baloyi explained that Masuluke spent three months on trial at Naturena while he was part of the technical team. The former Baroka FC goalkeeper, known for his famous overhead kick goal, impressed Baloyi not just with his talent but with his mentality.
“When Oscarine came on trial, he told me it was the first time he was receiving proper goalkeeper coaching,” Baloyi said.
“After training with him for two months, I went to Bobby Motaung and Steve Komphela and told them to sign him — but they refused.”
Baloyi, one of Chiefs’ most iconic goalkeepers, said Masuluke possessed qualities that can’t be coached.
“He had presence, a big heart, those things matter more than just raw technique, especially at big clubs like Chiefs or Pirates.”
The comments come as Chiefs continue to search for a reliable number one. Baloyi noted that despite Bruce Bvuma receiving top-class training from a young age, he lacks the commanding presence needed for a club under constant pressure.
“Bruce had the best training, but he doesn’t have a big heart. At big clubs, you need a goalkeeper who imposes himself, not just one who is technically sound,” said Baloyi.
“He doesn’t have the presence, for Pirates and Chiefs for me when I look at a goalkeeper, a goalkeeper with talent and technique and stuff, I would overlook them over a goalkeeper that has raw talent. If you look at Bruce, igwala (coward).”
Baloyi’s reflection on Masuluke’s trial now serves as a pointed reminder of what might have been — and highlights the long-standing challenge Amakhosi face in finding a dependable figure between the posts.