Kaizer Chiefs forward Velebayi reveals why Da Cruz trusts him and Baartman

Kaizer Chiefs winger Asanele Velebayi has praised the confidence new head coach Fernando da Cruz has shown in him and his close friend, Luke Baartman, early in the season.

The two young talents have been handed opportunities to make an impact under the French manager, with their strong pre-season performances seemingly earning them a key role in the team’s campaign.

Velebayi and Baartman’s connection dates back to their time together at the Ajax Cape Town youth academy, which made the latter’s first goal for Kaizer Chiefs a particularly special moment for his teammate.

Velebayi in awe of Baartman’s debut goal

Baartman scored his debut goal in a 2-0 victory over Sekhukhune United, a result that propelled Amakhosi to the top of the Betway Premiership table.

For Velebayi, witnessing his childhood friend score for the club was a moment of immense pride.

“Baartman getting his first goal was inspiring for me. It was also a happy and proud moment because we came up together. We’ve come a very long way from the youth setup at Ajax Cape Town, so seeing Luke score was almost like me scoring my first goal,” he said as quoted by iDiski Times.

The bond between the two players runs deep, with Velebayi emphasising that Baartman is more than just a teammate.

Chiefs forward on why Da Cruz trusts them

“He’s like a brother to me, so it was a proud moment,” Velebayi added. “Regarding the coach, I’d say he values our bravery. What I’ve picked up from coach Fernando is that he’s very demanding.”

“Even when you feel like you’ve given your best, he wants that one percent extra. That’s a positive thing about him; he’s always demanding and wants more,” he explained.

This demanding mentality could be vital for Velebayi as he aims to cement his place in the Chiefs’ attack under Da Cruz’s leadership.

While Velebayi has already demonstrated flashes of his potential, Baartman’s goal against Sekhukhune serves as further proof that the coach is committed to providing a platform for the club’s emerging stars.