Veteran defender Thami Mkhize has confirmed his departure from Cape Town City after nine years with the club, following their relegation to the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

City finished 15th in the Betway Premiership last season, which led to their involvement in the playoffs. Unfortunately, they failed to retain their top-flight status as Orbit College won the playoffs and secured promotion to the PSL for the upcoming season.

Mkhize joined Cape Town City after the 2016/17 season had already begun. He arrived at the club after leaving Orlando Pirates without making a single appearance that season. Reports indicate that Mkhize had a falling out with Muhsin Ertugral during his time with Golden Arrows, which reportedly scuttled his move to the Soweto giants.

He played a crucial role in City’s Telkom Knockout final victory over SuperSport United at Peter Mokaba Stadium, a mere 144 days after the club’s establishment when John Comitis acquired the status of Mpumalanga Black Aces. Mkhize went on to secure another trophy, the MTN8, under coach Benni McCarthy in the 2018/19 season, as City defeated SuperSport United in the final held in Durban.

The 36-year-old was appointed captain ahead of the 2018/19 season following Robyn Johannes’ departure to Bidvest Wits. The former Arrows defender is City’s most capped player, with a total of 270 appearances across all competitions. He also contributed nine goals and 15 assists during his tenure with the club.

Thami Mkhize’s Farewell Message

“First and foremost, glory and praise be to the Almighty for all that he has done,” said Mkhize.

“Today, I am truly grateful for the opportunity, the platform, and the chance I was given for the past eight years with this club. I lived and enjoyed what I had always dreamed of as a child. I would like to thank the team and all the sponsors for opening the door for me. We have created memorable moments together that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

“As I reflect, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all the coaches and their technical teams that I have worked with throughout these years, for the opportunity to play and improve my game. To the backroom and office staff, you guys always made sure we were taken care of for training as well as before and including game days—thank you.

“The strength of the team is each member. The strength of each member is the team.

“Above all, I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the club for seven consecutive seasons. This has helped me develop as a person both on and off the field.

“To the players, thank you guys for everything, for the brotherhood and friendships that I have built over the years. Our highs outweigh our lows, and during all the lows, we always got through them together as a team. I wish you all prosperity and successful journeys.

“To our faithful citizens, I want to thank you for all the support, encouragement, and love you have shown me. You have touched my soul and shown me what loyalty looks like. Most of our journey is filled with beautiful memories.

“Thank you for always backing the club; you guys will always be part of my life. Thank you for all the calls, chats, laughs, and pictures. As sad as I am leaving you guys like this, I want to emphasize the importance of the love that you have shown me. I appreciate you all, Citizens.

“To my family, thank you for always supporting me. Your love, comfort, and encouragement have driven me. To my wife and kids, you are the pillars of strength. Thank you.

“No words can express how humbled and grateful I am for this opportunity. Ngiyabonga.”