‘It really does not matter to me’ – Simba SC linked Neo Maema embraces CHAN challenge, not concerned by Mamelodi Sundowns absence

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Neo Maema may be away from his club but he’s not losing sleep over it. The talented playmaker is currently focused on a bigger mission - representing South Africa at the African Nations Championship (CHAN). 

While his absence means he’ll miss the chance to compete for a spot in Miguel Cardoso’s starting XI, Maema is fully committed to the national cause.

"Firstly, it's a proud moment to represent the country. It's a massive achievement to be in this position. It's a tournament we have not participated in for a long time. It's more excitement for me. It really does not matter to me (where he is playing now). The only thing that matters is us making sure we put the national team in a good position," Maema told the media. 

"A lot of players in our team are unattached and it's for them to do their best and make sure that they play for their contracts. And coming back with a medal wouldn't be such a bad thing.

“No comment on that," he said when asked about his club-level future. 

"I just want to focus on the tournament, making sure that we are in a good position for the tournament. That's what I am thinking about,” he concluded. 

Maema has recently been linked with a potential loan move to Tanzanian giants Simba SC. 

The 29-year-old saw limited minutes last season and with fierce competition at Chloorkop, his chances of regular game time in the new campaign remain uncertain.

With the player looking to make an impression in national team colours, he will be hoping that he and his teammates can win the CHAN competition. 

The South Africans are set to face Algeria, Guinea, Niger and hosts Uganda in Group C.