How Kaizer Chiefs denied their star a move to Liverpool while at his peak.
Chiefs legend Brian Baloyi recently opened up about his near-miss with a move to Premier League giants Liverpool during his prime in the late 1990s. As the standout goalkeeper for Amakhosi, Baloyi carved out a remarkable career that could have taken a different turn.
Baloyi made his Bafana Bafana debut in 1997, stepping in for Andre Arendse during a 2-0 loss to the Netherlands. His performance quickly elevated him to prominence, especially after earning recognition as one of the best players at the 1998 AFCON in Burkina Faso, where he secured a spot in the tournament’s All-Stars team.
The Liverpool opportunity
During the 1998 FIFA World Cup, Baloyi became aware of Liverpool’s interest. He recalled, as quoted by FARPost.
“In 1998, we went to the World Cup. And great Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Peta Bala’c comes to our camp… He said, ‘I’ve been speaking to Bruce Grobler, and we want to get you to Liverpool.’”
Baloyi’s excitement was palpable, but a significant hurdle emerged. Kaizer Motaung, the chairman of Kaizer Chiefs, insisted that any interested club must purchase Baloyi outright, denying him a chance to train with the Premier League club.
Another missed chance with Copenhagen
Baloyi faced a similar situation with FC Copenhagen, thanks to former Bafana striker Sibusiso Zuma’s recommendation. “Later, Copenhagen… wanted me to come over, train with them. Copenhagen came to SA in Port Elizabeth… And the chairman said, ‘No if you want him buy him.’”
Despite multiple opportunities to train with European clubs, Baloyi’s commitment to Kaizer Chiefs kept him grounded in South Africa.
Ultimately, Baloyi remained a key player in South African football, enjoying successful stints with Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Moroka Swallows. His decision to stay home solidified his legacy as one of the country’s most beloved goalkeepers.
Baloyi’s legacy in South African football
Baloyi’s journey reveals the challenges and choices athletes face in their careers. While a move to Liverpool or Copenhagen could have changed his trajectory, he instead became a legendary figure in South African football. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of commitment and loyalty in the world of sports.
Stay tuned with The South African as we reveal how Kaizer Chiefs denied star a move to Liverpool.
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