Kaizer Chiefs development player Aden McCarthy made his senior debut for the team on Saturday during the 1-1 draw against Sekhukhune United. This marked a special moment in his career, as he followed in the footsteps of his father, Fabian McCarthy, who played for Kaizer Chiefs from 2002 to 2008.
Aden and Fabian now join an exclusive list of father-son duos to have played for the Glamour Boys, becoming the fifth such pairing in the club’s history. They are now in the same league as some of the most legendary figures in the club’s history, including club chairman Dr. Kaizer Motaung and his son Kaizer Motaung Jnr, legendary player Doctor Khumalo and his late father Eliakim Khumalo, as well as the late Siphiwe Mkhonza and his father Joseph Mkhonza. Another iconic pairing includes Morgan Gould, a league-winning defender for Amakhosi, and his father Ace ‘Goodenough’ Nkomo, who also wore the Gold & Black.
A Proud Moment for the McCarthy Family
Fabian McCarthy, who made 152 appearances for Kaizer Chiefs, couldn’t hide his pride and emotion after watching his son play for the first team. He shared, “It was a very proud and also emotional moment. If only my late father could have seen Aden make his Kaizer Chiefs debut. For myself, my wife Melissa, and the entire extended family, we are incredibly proud of Aden.”
Fabian, who had a successful and trophy-laden career with the club, also expressed his happiness at joining the prestigious father-son legacy at Kaizer Chiefs. He added, “I’m happy to be part of this father-son legacy at Kaizer Chiefs. Thank you for the opportunity, and I wish Aden all the best moving forward.”
A Dream Come True for Aden
Aden McCarthy, born on December 4, 2003—just two days before his father played in the 2003/04 Coca-Cola Cup final win over Platinum Stars—described his debut as the culmination of a lifelong dream. “I was born into the Kaizer Chiefs colours. My dad was still playing for them at the time,” he said. “Making my debut for Kaizer Chiefs was a dream I’ve had since I was a small boy, so to see it come true is a huge accomplishment.”
Reflecting on his path to the first team, Aden said, “As a young player, I always gave my best, and I knew that the right opportunity would come at the right time. I’m grateful that the coach gave me the chance to showcase my talent.”
A Special Legacy
Aden also spoke about the special legacy of following in his father’s footsteps at Kaizer Chiefs. “Being the fifth father-son combination to play for Kaizer Chiefs is crazy to think about, but it’s an incredible honour for me and my family,” he said.
He also took a moment to acknowledge the vital role his mother played in his journey. “I need to give credit to my mother,” Aden added. “People often talk about my father and the football connection, but my mother has been the backbone of our family, supporting us all the way.”
The McCarthy family’s shared history with Kaizer Chiefs is truly special, and Aden’s debut is a proud moment that continues the legacy of his father’s contributions to the club.
