Bafana Bafana striker Khanyisa Mayo has explained his decision to sign for CR Belouizdad, revealing that club president Mehdi Rabehi personally flew to South Africa to persuade him to join.

Mayo inked a three-year deal with Belouizdad, moving from Cape Town City for a reported fee of R20 million. The Algerian club will compete in the CAF Champions League next season after finishing second behind champions MC Alger. This was a major drawcard for Mayo, who eagerly sought a platform in Africa’s premier club competition.

Mayo became the first South African to join CR Belouizdad, with other compatriots plying their trade in Egypt and Tunisia.

“The negotiations with the president went well. The president himself was a lovely guy. He came to South Africa to convince me to come to the club,” Mayo told CR Belouizdad TV. 

“I looked at the club, it’s history and everything else. I saw it’s one of the big clubs in Algeria and that’s why I’m here today to join the team. “The president was good. We spoke about negotiations and everything went well. For me, it’s to go further and enjoy the family I’m joining because the president is wonderful and we have a good relationship. 

“He welcomed me to the team, so I’m grateful to be here. Other clubs had an interest in me, but I chose this team because I love the team. It’s a great team with great people and the lovely city of Algiers. The people in the city are welcoming,” 

Mayo, who reportedly appeared unhappy at City during pre-season, is excited about the upcoming season with Belouizdad and aims to score plenty of goals.

“They must expect Khanyisa Mayo, the goalscoring machine, someone who’s going to work, someone who’s going to be loved, someone who’s going to love the family,” he said. 

“Everyone will be excited to watch every game. I can’t wait to meet the fans. I think it’s going to be a great season for CRB and me.”