Why European returnee Thabo Cele has been axed from Kaizer Chiefs pre-season tour - 'The scouts are out there looking for a replacement'

Thabo Cele arrived at Kaizer Chiefs with a massive reputation following a lengthy stint in Europe. Unfortunately, his time with the Soweto giants has divided opinion, with some believing his presence on the field was evident, while others disagree.

Recently, the midfielder was left behind when the club travelled to Spain, but Amakhosi have yet to provide an update, leaving the situation open to interpretation.

Commenting on these developments, former Orlando Pirates star Lebohang Mokoena believes the 29-year-old was handed an almost impossible task, with expectations that he would single-handedly transform the Glamour Boys' fortunes.

'Cheesboy' suggested that the pressure to deliver immediately in a side still searching for its tactical identity may have ultimately led to the current impasse between the player and the club's management.

Speaking on SoccerBeat, Mokoena highlighted the technical quality Cele brought to the pitch despite his struggles to secure a regular starting berth under the bright lights of the FNB Stadium.

"What a player, man. His technical ability on its own is impressive.

"He is a Chiefs kind of player. Sometimes it’s very difficult to get to a club when the club is trying to find its identity.

"You’re supposed to walk in and find the house clean, and sometimes that takes time," Mokoena explained.

Mokoena believes the weight of expectation was simply too heavy for any individual to carry, drawing parallels with other high-profile departures that have taken place at the club in recent seasons.

Mokoena elaborated on this burden, stating: "A lot was expected from him to carry the team.

"A team like Chiefs does not need an individual who will carry the team.

"Expectations were also high for George Matlou, and he left. He didn’t have the impact many expected at Chiefs."

With the midfielder failing to make the plane to Spain, the writing appears to be on the wall for his career at Naturena.

Mokoena admits that at a club of this magnitude, the recruitment department is always looking for the next upgrade, regardless of how recently a player joined.

"These things happen at big teams.

"If you don’t take your opportunity, there’s always another player the club is looking at.

"They sign you today, and tomorrow the scouts are out there looking for a replacement before you’ve even touched the ball," Mokoena added.