Once a star both on and off the field, Lerato Chabangu has fallen on hard times. He now finds himself without income, a home, or a car.
Chabangu has been forced to move in with his grandmother in Tembisa. The former Bafana Bafana star, whose career flourished until recently, now looks a shadow of his former self as he pleads with PSL clubs for another chance.
Since being released by Chippa United over a year ago, his once-promising football career has come to a halt. Reflecting on his past mistakes, Chabangu told Sowetan, “I squandered my money on things that didn’t matter because I always expected another paycheck.”
He recalled the lifestyle that contributed to his downfall. “After training finished at 11 am, we were free to do anything. We’d hang out at Shisanyama, have drinks, and it just became a habit.”
Despite his claims that he still has the talent, the 32-year-old now struggles with the consequences of poor financial decisions. His house in Boksburg and his car have been repossessed, and he’s no longer able to afford the lifestyle he once enjoyed, including a luxury apartment in Midrand.
Chabangu’s personal life has also suffered. He separated from his wife due to financial troubles and no longer sees his six-year-old daughter, who lives with her mother.
“I’ve made many mistakes and learned hard lessons. Things are difficult, and I’m not the type to beg, but I have nothing left. Football is all I know, and I just hope someone out there can give me another chance.”
The tattoos on his arms are a reminder of his former life—a life filled with fast cars and attention from beautiful women. “I used to buy expensive things without a second thought. When the Golf V was released, I got one right away. Women were always around, but my real downfall was alcohol.”
Not long ago, Chabangu was part of the national team during Gordon Igesund’s tenure. In 2014, after Bafana Bafana’s exit from the African Nations Championship, he famously responded to then-sports minister Fikile Mbalula’s “bunch of losers” comment by calling the minister a “bunch of a loser.”
Now, abandoned by his friends, Chabangu spends his days with family in Tembisa and keeps fit by training at a local field.
His advice to current footballers? “Save as much as you can. It’s tough, but they must think about the future.”
