Kaizer Chiefs’ dismal season has drawn heavy criticism from all corners, and now club legend Marks Maponyane has openly questioned the leadership of current captain Yusuf Maart.
Speaking on Radio 2000, Maponyane delivered a blunt assessment: “He has no leadership skills.” His comments come as Amakhosi sit in a disappointing ninth place on the Betway Premiership table with just 30 points, far below the expectations of their supporters and former greats.
Maart’s Leadership Questioned Amid Club Crisis
Yusuf Maart, who took over the captaincy at the start of the 2024/25 campaign, was expected to bring direction and discipline to a struggling squad. While he showed promise leading Sekhukhune United in the past, his time wearing the Chiefs armband has been met with growing skepticism.
Despite making 31 appearances this season and chipping in with two goals and three assists, Maart’s influence on the field is being called into question. Maponyane didn’t hold back in his criticism, recalling a poor crossfield pass during a recent match.
“He tried a crossfield pass and it ended up in row 45,” the former Chiefs striker said in disbelief. “You can’t avoid talking about this. How do you lead a team without leadership qualities?”
A Leadership Void Holding Chiefs Back?
Kaizer Chiefs’ ongoing inconsistency—eight wins, six draws, and twelve losses—has made them one of the most underwhelming teams this season. And according to Maponyane, the root of the problem may be a lack of true leadership on the pitch.
“There are no leaders in this team,” he said. “You can’t lead if you’re not confident, and confidence comes from winning. Right now, Chiefs have neither.”
A Defining Moment Ahead
With only two league fixtures left—against Sekhukhune United and Polokwane City—there’s little left to salvage in the league. However, one major challenge remains: the Nedbank Cup final against Orlando Pirates.
For Maart, it’s a crucial opportunity to silence critics and show the kind of leadership the badge demands. A win in the cup final could rewrite the narrative, ending Chiefs’ nine-year wait for silverware and restoring faith in the skipper’s ability to lead.
The spotlight is now firmly on Maart—will he rise or retreat under the pressure?
