Rumors of internal conflict over the Kaizer Chiefs captaincy have been firmly dismissed by the club’s vice-captain, Inacio Miguel, who voiced strong support for current skipper Yusuf Maart amidst growing fan debate.
Maart, 28, took over the captain’s armband after his move from Sekhukhune United in July 2022 – where he had also served as captain.
His leadership recently culminated in a defining moment for the Soweto giants, scoring the winning goal in the Nedbank Cup final against fierce rivals Orlando Pirates.
The victory not only secured silverware but also ended the club’s painful ten-year trophy drought.
Read: Kaizer Chiefs striker lands Betway Premiership April Award
Despite these achievements, Maart’s captaincy has become a hot topic among sections of the fanbase. Some critics, particularly on social media, have questioned whether his calm and reserved demeanor makes him an assertive enough leader for a club of Chiefs’ stature.
These conversations have led to suggestions that newly signed Angolan defender Inacio Miguel might be better suited to lead the team.
However, Miguel, 29, who joined the Amakhosi from Petro Luanda earlier this season, has made it abundantly clear that there is no tension between him and Maart. In a recent interview, he emphasized the mutual respect and unity within the leadership group.
“I have huge respect for Yusuf. Yusuf is my captain. I respect him a lot… he has a lot of leadership skills. I don’t see any difference when it’s me or him wearing the armband because we’re two great leaders,” Miguel said.
“For me, he’s my leader. He has played a huge role for the team. He gives the face of the team; he never hides.
“He has a lot of personality and character… I love him a lot.
Shutting down any suggestion that he could do a better job, Miguel added, “I can’t say that if I were the captain, things would have been better, no.”
Fresh off their Nedbank Cup triumph, Kaizer Chiefs will take to the pitch this weekend. Amakhosi will travel to the Peter Mokaba Stadium to do battle with Sekhukhune United. Kick off in Limpopo is set for 15h00 on Saturday, 17 May 2025.