Mailula lands a new club in Europe

South African attacking midfielder Cassius Mailula has completed a season-long loan from Toronto FC to Belgian side KV Kortrijk. 

The agreement includes an option for Kortrijk to secure the player on a permanent basis. Mailula’s arrival comes after he spent the previous season on loan with Wydad Athletic Club in Morocco before returning to his parent club in Major League Soccer.

KV Kortrijk is currently in first place in the Belgian First Division B, having collected a perfect 12 points from their first four games of the 2025/26 season. 

The club remains undefeated, which speaks to their strong start and provides a solid foundation for Mailula’s integration. Mailula's track record includes a productive spell with Wydad, where he played in 36 matches, scoring six goals and providing seven assists. 

His initial move abroad was in July 2023 when he joined Toronto FC from South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns, and this loan to Kortrijk offers him a chance to build on that experience in a new European setting.

“KV Kortrijk is pleased to announce the arrival of South African Cassius Mailula [24]. The quick and agile attacking midfielder will join our club until the end of the season. KV Kortrijk has also secured a purchase option,” read the club’s official statement.

KORTRIJK’S SPORTING DIRECTOR ON MAILULA

“Mailula is an offensive player who can play in multiple positions. He played at the FIFA Club World Cup this summer, where he also scored,” said Vanneste.

In addition, Mailula also expressed his excitement about joining the club and embarking on this new chapter in his career.