South African Mailula: ‘Not on holiday at KV Kortrijk’

Talented South African forward Cassius Mailula has explained why he chose to spend his loan spell at Belgian second division team KV Kortrijk this season.

The attacker left Mamelodi Sundowns in the 2023-2024 season to sign for American side Toronto FC. He, however, did not stay long with the Major Soccer League outfit. He ended up reuniting with his former coach Rulani Mokwena at Raja Casablanca last season. The sacking of the youthful mentor also compromised Mailula’s future at the Moroccan team.

The Bafana Bafana international rejoined Toronto, only to opt out again. This time around with Kortrijk on loan from the American team. Having completed his paperwork with the Belgian side, the 24-year-old has opened up on his move to Europe and what he seeks to achieve.

Mailula told Kortrijk television that he opted for the club because he considers it as a stepping stone to his dream of playing for a top team in Europe.

“I feel very happy to be here,” the South African said. “Finally, I think the wait was worth it. I can’t wait to get started. The reason I chose this team is mainly because it is in Europe. It is my dream that I want to play for a big club in Europe. This is a good stepping stone for me to take my career to the higher level.”

The former Sundowns star explained what he hopes to achieve in Belgium, saying he was not in Europe on a holiday.

So what does Cassius Mailula bring to Kortrijk’s table?

“I would say I am a very a creative player. I like to score. I like to help a team to play better. I like to run behind defenders, and open spaces for others. I think I like to dribble,” he explained.

Mailula then explained why moving to Kortrijk could re-ignite his career with South Africa football team.

“The team will help me to get back to the national team, Bafana Bafana. My ambition, firstly, is to get to the First Division with the club and also have as many goals in the season and assists. I didn’t just come here on a holiday. I came here to work hard, to represent my family and my country. I know there are a lot of kids that would take this opportunity with both hands,” he added.

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