Kaizer Chiefs defender Given Msimango has admitted to the frustration of watching his team from the sidelines as playing opportunities have been limited this season.

Msimango was a key player last season, regularly starting at center-back and even captaining the side under coaches like Molefi Ntseki and Cavin Johnson.

He featured in 30 matches across all competitions. However, with the arrival of Inacio Miguel and Rushwin Dortley at the start of the current campaign, his playing time has significantly decreased. He has only made four league appearances, the last of which was a 2-2 draw against Royal AM in November.

In that game, Msimango, starting due to Miguel’s suspension, made a costly error that contributed to Royal AM’s comeback. Despite taking an early two-goal lead, Chiefs conceded two late goals, with Msimango’s mistimed challenge playing a role in the equalizer. Following this performance, he has been out of the starting lineup for the past three matches.

“Last season was a good season for me personally,” said Msimango. “I played almost every game. This season, a new coach came in, brought new players, and reinforced the defense. I have to wait for my opportunity to play. When I get it, I need to use it. But for the time being, I need to support the guys who are playing and show them the respect they have shown me when I was playing. I need to stay professional at all times.”

There was an air of excitement surrounding Chiefs at the start of the season, as they won their first two league matches under new coach Nasreddine Nabi. Hopes were high that they could challenge for the league title. However, a 2-1 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns in September derailed their momentum.

When asked if Chiefs had lost their way, Msimango responded, “I wouldn’t say we lost our way. It’s part of the process. The first two games, and even the first five games to be honest, were fantastic in terms of performance and chances created.

“Looking at the statistics, we were doing well. For some odd reason, we were not fortunate enough to convert our chances and win those games. It is part of football, and we understand that as professionals. It is something we are collectively working on, and I’m sure the coaches are tirelessly working on it as well.”

Chiefs ended 2024 on a positive note with a 1-0 victory over Chippa United at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on 29 December. They will begin the new year with an away match against managerless Cape Town City on 5 January.