Ex-Pirates star warns Kaizer Chiefs against signing Tito Maswanganyi

Orlando Pirates legend Lebohang Mokoena has explained why Kaizer Chiefs should think twice before considering a move for Patrick ‘Tito’ Maswanganyi.

The 28-year-old currently plays for Bahrain-based Al-Khaldiya SC. Last month, reports emerged suggesting that the midfielder could be on his way out of the club after reportedly falling out of favour with the team.

Maswanganyi has apparently dropped down the pecking order and struggled to secure regular starts. On Wednesday, however, he came on as a second-half substitute as Al-Khaldiya defeated Al-Wahda 2-1.

Chiefs told not to sign Tito

Speaking on SoccerBeat, former Pirates midfielder Mokoena, popularly known as Cheeseboy, explained why he would not recommend Maswanganyi to Chiefs.

“Yes, he’s got the experience, but he’s not the Tito that played under coach Jose Riveiro. For me, if Chiefs want to get a Tito, all I can say is good luck, because our opinions are different. But for me, I wouldn’t go for a player like Tito at Kaizer Chiefs, especially in the current situation and the type of player that he is.

“I think we had some issues at Orlando Pirates where we saw the other side of Tito. Even coach Mandla elaborated and said he’s a different type of human being. You need to sit down with him and try to understand him,” he said.

Mokoena also appeared to question whether Maswanganyi possesses the leadership qualities needed to guide the younger players at Naturena.

With Chiefs looking to strengthen their squad and build a competitive team, Mokoena believes Tito Maswanganyi might not be the right profile of player for the Soweto giants at this stage.