Kaizer Chiefs captain Yusuf Maart is heading to Europe, with newly promoted Austrian Bundesliga side SV Ried 1912 securing his signature. The midfield maestro will reunite with former Stellenbosch FC winger Antonio van Wyk at the ambitious Austrian outfit.
Amakhosi left Maart behind as the squad travelled to the Netherlands for their pre-season camp, following a reported agreement between Chiefs and Ried. Despite the club recently exercising a two-year extension on his contract, the offer from SV Ried proved too good to turn down.
SV Ried building a SA core
SV Ried, also known as SV Guntamatic Ried for sponsorship purposes, earned promotion to Austria’s top flight after a successful 2024/2025 campaign in the second tier. Van Wyk played a crucial role in that campaign and now welcomes another South African talent to the fold.
The club also boasts South African links in the technical department. Moritz Kossmann, a former coach at Ubuntu Academy and Cape Town City’s Diski Challenge team, now serves as Ried’s assistant coach and chief analyst. Kossmann moved to Europe in 2024 and has played a pivotal role in integrating South African talent into the Austrian system.
SV Ried have already begun their pre-season preparations and are pushing to have Maart available in time for their upcoming friendly. The club hopes to field him in a crucial match against German third-tier outfit Energie Cottbus at the Innviertel Arena on Friday, 18 July.
Ried set for Bundesliga return against Salzburg
Ried’s Bundesliga journey begins with a daunting fixture against RB Salzburg on Saturday, 2 August. The coaching staff view Maart as a key addition to strengthen their midfield ahead of the season.
“I think this change is quite possible. Ried is looking for a strong player for the centre midfield. Will let you know when I have more information but apparently he left the airport just after 6pm yesterday,” said a source close to the deal.
Maart’s Euro dream takes flight
Yusuf Maart’s move marks another significant step for South African players breaking into European football. With familiar faces around him and a new challenge ahead, all eyes will be on Maart as he looks to make his mark in the Austrian Bundesliga.
Will the Kaizer Chiefs star make an impact in Austria?
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