Duba Stays Firm: “I’m Here to Stay” Despite Transfer Speculations
Wandile Duba, the forward representing Kaizer Chiefs, has reassured fans of his dedication to the club, despite a screenshot on social media suggesting a potential exit.
This screenshot sparked concern among Chiefs supporters, especially with the transfer window currently open.
At an event on Wednesday, where the Nedbank Cup champions, Chiefs and Nedbank, opened a new sports court at Phulong Secondary School in Kwa-Thema, Springs, Duba promptly clarified his stance.
“[Laughing], I’m not going anywhere; I’m with the team,” Duba said with a grin, affirming his commitment.
Moreover, fans and even his coach, Nasreddine Nabi, have voiced concerns about Duba’s aggressiveness on the field, particularly with videos circulating that show him challenging opponents.
Nabi had earlier voiced concerns regarding the young striker’s mental health.
Despite this, Duba remains unfazed. “It doesn’t really bother me,” he responded when asked whether his intensity might be interpreted as brutality.
“That’s the style the coach expects us to adopt. It’s just the responses, people visiting your profile and making threats, all that nonsense.”
He acknowledged that negativity on social media had taken a toll on him. “During the last game [when Chiefs triumphed over Golden Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium], my mindset wasn’t right, and I tried to avoid social media.”
Duba, who scored the pivotal goal in the Nedbank Cup semifinal against Mamelodi Sundowns before Chiefs triumphed over Orlando Pirates in the final, mentioned that social media commentary can sometimes entice him to respond.
“I don’t let those things [social media posts] stress me too much,” Duba noted. “I usually talk to my brother; he helps keep me grounded. Sometimes, I feel like replying or sending a message back when I notice negative comments about me.”
Since his promotion in January 2023, Duba has participated in 43 matches across all competitions, scoring six goals and registering four assists.
