Neo Maema breaks silence on rejecting Kaizer Chiefs

Mamelodi Sundowns star, on loan at Simba SC, Neo Maema, has finally addressed his choice to join the Tanzanian giants, confirming he intentionally snubbed a potential move to Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs in favour of a fresh challenge abroad.

The attacking midfielder secured a season-long loan move to the Tanzanian Premier League powerhouse in search of guaranteed game-time after struggling to secure a regular starting spot under Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso.

While Maema was one of several high-profile players—including Sipho Mbule, Thembinkosi Lorch, and Rivaldo Coetzee—to exit Masandawana during the recent squad clear-out, his destination raised eyebrows. Reports had strongly linked the former Bloemfontein Celtic star with a move to Kaizer Chiefs for the upcoming 2025/26 Betway Premiership season.

The Reasoning For Kaizer Chiefs Snub

Speaking on the SoccerBeat Podcast, Maema confirmed the Amakhosi interest but insisted his decision to join Simba was a personal one driven by the need for a total reset outside of South Africa’s top flight.

“I was aware [of the Chiefs’ interest] and it’s something that my agent also mentioned to me,” Maema revealed. “I sat down with my family and I told them that the only thing that will help me now is actually a completely new environment.”

Maema was emphatic about avoiding another PSL club, even one of Chiefs’ stature, noting: “That was my decision, and the new environment was not going to be another club in South Africa. I think it has to be outside of South Africa if I find an offer.”

The timing of the offer from Simba SC, where he joined compatriot Rushine De Reuck, proved perfect. Maema said the move allowed him to pursue his ultimate focus: to compete in the CAF Champions League and maintain his high performance level.

“Simba came at the right time… They approached me and I thought it might be good because the only thing I wanted to push for was the [CAF] Champions League and make sure that I give myself a memorable season, compete and never drop my level as a player,” he concluded.

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