The 21-year-old has been on Chiefs' books since his teenage years and has steadily risen through the ranks, playing a key role in the club's reserve team that clinched the DStv Diski Challenge title last season.

His consistent performances earned him a place on Chiefs' pre-season tour of Europe, a milestone Mabaso views as a turning point in his career ambitions.

Mabaso has been part of the Amakhosi reserve setup since the age of 17 and was among the more experienced players who previously toured the United Kingdom for the Premier League Next Gen tournament.

There, Chiefs tested themselves against elite academy sides such as Manchester United, Leeds United and Queens Park Rangers - an experience Mabaso says highlighted the standards required at the top level.

The midfielder explained that those international tours exposed the gap between local football and the European game, particularly in terms of intensity, speed of play and professionalism, lessons he is eager to apply as he continues his transition into the senior squad.

"Travelling on the pre-season tour to the Netherlands was very good for me," Mabaso told the club's official website.

"To be around experienced players helped me understand what it takes to be a professional footballer. In football, you never stop learning, so I am grateful for the opportunity to pick up things I can carry forward. I was happy to get a chance to play and prove that I am capable of performing at the highest level."

Mabaso's patience was rewarded when he made his official Premiership debut as a second-half substitute in Chiefs' 1-0 win over Golden Arrows at FNB Stadium in midweek.

While the occasion carried obvious significance, the midfielder said the moment demanded belief and composure more than emotion.

"I knew that playing for Chiefs is something many players dream about," he said.

"When I stepped onto the pitch, I told myself to believe, because sometimes in life you only get one opportunity and you must make the most of it."

The occasion was made even more special by the presence of former coaches and teammates from Meadowlands Academy, who came out to support him.

"It was really emotional to see them there. It reminds you of where you come from. It's a special moment that will stay with me forever."

Thulani Mabaso credits long development path, European exposure for Kaizer Chiefs breakthrough