Former Kaizer Chiefs transfer target Khanyisa Mayo learning from CR Belouizdad teammate Islam Slimani of Algeria as Bafana Bafana forward targets move to top European league - 'I'm willing to fight'

Khanyisa Mayo has started life at CR Belouizdad with determination but is yet to find his rhythm in front of goal.

The South African striker has played seven matches without scoring, but his work rate and positioning have shown promise.

Playing alongside Algerian legend Islam Slimani, Mayo has gained valuable insights into the demands of top-level football. Slimani, known for his successful stints in Europe, has taken Mayo under his wing, mentoring him on how to improve his finishing and overall play.

Despite the pressure to deliver, Mayo remains focused on adapting to the pace and physicality of Algerian football.

With each game, he inches closer to the breakthrough he needs to kickstart his Belouizdad career.

“I’m competing with one of the most prolific strikers you’ve seen, Islam Slimani, who played at Newcastle, Leicester, and Sporting. So it’s a different challenge, and it’s a challenge that I am ready for and willing to fight for,” Mayo said on the SoccerBeat YouTube channel as reported by Soccer Laduma.

“I play next to him; sometimes I play out on the wing, and sometimes I play behind him as a number ten.I grew up watching Islam Slimani. He is one of the top strikers Algeria has ever produced."

“On a daily basis, we chat. I ask him about how it is, how the mindset is in Europe, and how he managed to succeed there. When you rub shoulders with people who have played in the elite leagues, you want to follow in their footsteps. You want to go and play in the elite leagues—that’s the main goal,” Mayo concluded

For Mayo, success at CR Belouizdad is about more than goals; it’s about proving himself on a bigger stage.

Regular game time and improved form could open the door for a return to the Bafana Bafana setup.

Additionally, performing in the CAF Champions League would elevate his profile and bring him closer to realizing his European ambitions

Mayo knows the importance of breaking his scoring drought to cement his place in the starting eleven.

As Belouizdad competes in domestic and continental competitions, the striker has ample opportunities to make his mark.

Scoring that crucial first goal could be the catalyst for Mayo to build confidence and start delivering consistent performances