Kaizer Motaung Jr slams ‘fabricated lie’ about Chiefs stars Shabalala and Vilakazi

Kaizer Chiefs Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr has strongly refuted claims that midfielders Mduduzi Shabalala and Mfundo Vilakazi were excluded from the squad due to disciplinary problems.

The two academy graduates were conspicuously absent from the team sheet for the recent Soweto Derby. Their omission fueled speculation on social media, with reports suggesting the club had disciplined both players for off-field misconduct.

These rumors were promptly dismissed in the post-match press conference by coach Cedric Kaze, a sentiment echoed by agent Mike Makaab. The official explanation was that Vilakazi was injured, while Shabalala was left out for tactical reasons in the 3-2 defeat to Orlando Pirates.

Speaking on Kaizer Chiefs Radio, Motaung Jr expressed his frustration with the unfounded reports. “I saw some rumours that Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala were left out of the matchday squad because of ill-discipline. That was extremely disappointing to hear; it was a lie, fabricated, and totally dishonest,” he stated.

Motaung Jr clears the air on Mdu and Vilakazi

Shabalala has since returned to the squad, featuring in the mid-week fixture against Richards Bay, though Chiefs’ poor form continued with a fifth loss in six matches across all competitions.

Motaung Jr provided further clarity on the players’ situations. “Mfundo has been injured and was not able to train. With Mdu, we’ve had no disciplinary issues,” he confirmed.

“These young boys do so much for this team. They played an instrumental role in us lifting the trophy we did, under immense pressure as young, talented players. They give everything for this club, and for flat-out lies to be said about them—that for me is where I draw the line.”

He concluded with a firm denial: “That’s totally unacceptable. None of them were dropped for disciplinary issues—that never happened.”