Kaizer Chiefs’ rising star Mfundo Vilakazi has remained unfazed by criticism as he prepares for the upcoming season.
The 18-year-old midfielder has been the subject of controversy due to his flashy style of play, often branded as showboating by critics.
One of the most vocal detractors was Young Africans player Aziz Ki, who slammed Vilakazi’s tricks as “nonsense” during a 4-0 defeat in the Toyota Cup at Free State Stadium.
Despite the harsh words, Vilakazi made it clear that outside opinions had little impact on him. “Usually, I don’t read comments on social media. I don’t care what people say, so I don’t think that [criticism] hurt me,” he said during Amajita’s media open day at Fun Valley in Olifantsvlei.
“As long as the coach and the team are happy, that’s what matters.”
Vilakazi revealed that he used the criticism as fuel to work even harder, aiming to turn doubters into believers. “I take criticism as motivation that I must work even harder.
“If people praise me, that says I must continue doing well,” he explained.
The talented youngster was eager to prove himself in the upcoming DStv Premiership season, which would kick off with a trip to the Free State Stadium to face Marumo Gallants on September 14, followed by a home game against Stellenbosch at FNB Stadium.
Vilakazi expressed confidence that his performance on the pitch would eventually win over his critics. “When I score, the very same people who are criticizing me will be saying, ‘Hey Mfundo this and that, you must go and play overseas,’ forgetting that they are the ones who were criticizing me when I did a trick against Yanga,” he said.
Vilakazi is also focused on securing a regular spot in the AmaKhosi starting line-up, recognizing that consistent game time would boost his confidence and overall development.
“I think this season I have to work harder so that I will be able to start games. Starting games would boost my confidence and would also help me improve where I should,” he added.
As part of the Amajita squad, Vilakazi is set to face Lesotho in a friendly at Maseru’s Bambatha Tsita Sports Arena, with a second match scheduled at the same venue on Sunday. These games are crucial warm-ups ahead of next month’s COSAFA Cup, where the two finalists will qualify for the Under-20 CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).