Speaking to Soccer Laduma, Vilakazi praised the former Stellenbosch star’s intelligence and creativity:

 “He’s a very good player; I like him. I saw him when he was playing for Royal AM and then Stellenbosch. He’s a very smart player, very intelligent, good with the ball, and good without the ball.”

Vilakazi believes De Jong’s ability to operate across multiple positions makes him a valuable addition:

“He can play as a false number nine, he can play as a number ten, and he can play as a winger, but a winger that tucks inside. That’s a good signing from Pirates to balance the team.”

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The former Bucs midfielder even highlighted De Jong’s unique playing style, noting how his flair resembles that of Black South African attackers:

“Because when he plays, if somebody can hear his name being called on the radio, they can even think that he’s Black, because he plays like Black players. He’s skilful; he knows how to create chances, and he knows how to score.”

With De Jong’s arrival, questions arise over the futures of Mbule and Maswanganyi, who have both featured prominently as number tens for Pirates. Vilakazi’s comments suggest De Jong could be deployed in that role, potentially pushing one of the two out of the starting lineup.

The New Zealand -born midfielder began his Betway Premiership journey in the 2019/20 season with AmaZulu before moving to Stellenbosch, where his career truly took off. He became a regular starter, playing a key role in the club’s 2023 Carling Knockout campaign and helping them qualify for CAF Confederation Cup football.

During his time in the Cape Winelands, De Jong registered 19 goals and 11 assists in 114 appearances, underlining his consistency and attacking threat.

With De Jong’s versatility and Vilakazi’s ringing endorsement, Pirates may now face tough decisions in balancing their attacking midfield options. The competition for the number ten role could intensify, leaving Mbule and Maswanganyi under pressure to prove their worth.

Written by Mabongi Gazu