"We had offers abroad, but for personal reasons, it was best for Khanyisa to come back and join Chiefs," Michaels told SABC Sport.

She also praised Chiefs' sporting director, Kaizer Motaung Jnr, for ensuring the deal went through.

"This was a very difficult transfer, but he never gave up - and now Khanyisa follows in his father's footsteps," Michaels added.

The transfer is especially symbolic as Mayo's father, Patrick Mayo, played for Chiefs between 2003 and 2007, making this a true homecoming.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Mayo will be looking to shine at Chiefs and reclaim his place in the Bafana Bafana squad.

Since leaving Cape Town City for CR Belouizdad last year, he has struggled for regular call-ups under coach Hugo Broos. A strong season at Amakhosi could be the perfect platform to reignite his international career.

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The 21-year-old centre-back began the season with back-to-back Man of the Match performances in Amakhosi's opening Betway Premiership fixtures against Stellenbosch and Polokwane City.

However, a hamstring injury in the 35th minute of the victory against Richards Bay has kept the youngster on the sidelines for the last two matches.

The Kaizer Chiefs Youth Development Academy product opened up about his step up to the senior side and his approach to the 2025/26 campaign.

"Honestly the Netherlands pre-season tour was amazing," said McCarthy to reporters.

"It brought out a different side of us, mentality, the spirit amongst the guys and I feel like we have gelled more, and it has shown in the start of our journey this season."

The Soweto giants will be boosted by McCarthy's early return to training as they prepare for a packed fixture list following the international break.

"I believe in myself, and it just shows that the coaches believe in me too, I am happy to achieve the awards (Man of the Match), but I will never let it get to my head," added the defender.

"We want to take it ga

Kaizer Chiefs staying in touch with absent coach Nasreddine Nabi