NATURENA — The sweeping squad changes at Naturena have hit home for Kaizer Chiefs’ rising star Mfundo Vilakazi, who has penned a deeply emotional tribute to departing mentor Gaston Sirino.
Following Kaizer Chiefs’ official announcement on Monday confirming the 35-year-old Uruguayan’s departure, the 19-year-old academy graduate took to Instagram to lay bare his heartbreak. For Vilakazi, Sirino was far more than just a world-class teammate—he was a vital guide in his transition to senior professional football.
The Emotional Exchange
Mfundo Vilakazi:
“Papi 😢. Today is a very sad day for me. It’s hard to put into words how much you mean to me… You’ve shaped my career and my life more than you probably realise. Thank you for everything. I love you forever bro.”
The veteran midfielder, who is heavily tipped to put pen to paper with newly promoted Durban City FC, wasted no time in offering a heartwarming response to his young protege:
Gaston Sirino:
“My son, it was lovely these two years we shared together. I’m going to miss you. God gave you an incredible talent; you just have to enjoy it and go for your dreams.”
Preseason Separation
While Sirino prepares for his next domestic chapter in South Africa, Vilakazi is currently in Europe with the rest of the Amakhosi squad under Fernando Da Cruz, preparing to carry the creative torch for the upcoming 2026/27 campaign.
