Cape Town Spurs’ boss Alexi Efstathiou is crying foul after he lost both Asanele Velebayi and Luke Baartman to Kaizer Chiefs for free.
The duo were contracted with Spurs until the club were relegated to the ABC Motsepe League thus making them free agents. The club argued that the players were still under contract but the Premier Soccer League’s Dispute Resolution Chamber (DRC) decided otherwise
“This isn’t about bitterness, it’s about sustainability,” Efstathiou said via Cape Town Spurs’ official website.
“We invest heavily in developing young talent, but if clubs like ours are continually losing players without any return, it becomes impossible to sustain that model. Ultimately, it’s the next generation of footballers who will suffer. There has to be a fair balance,” he continued.
Kaizer Chiefs sign Spurs duo for free
“If development clubs aren’t rewarded for the work they do, many will shut their doors. That means fewer pathways for young players and weaker foundations for South African football as a whole.
“We need to protect development. Right now, there is no recognition or support from institutions or government. If this continues, football development will become an endangered species in our country. For those who don’t see the bigger picture — you’re on the path to killing football,” he concluded.
With the DRC having made a ruling, Spurs are looking to appeal their verdict and force Kaizer Chiefs to pay for the duo. It matter appears far from over.
Should Chiefs have paid for Velebayi and Baartman?
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