Thulani Serero, the former PSL Footballer of the Year, is making headlines once again as he returns to South Africa after nearly 14 years abroad. The midfielder, known for his time at Ajax Amsterdam and stints in the UAE, is currently training with Cape Town City Football Club and is poised to rejoin the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
The 34-year-old arrives back home after his contract with Khor Fakkan, another Emirati club, ended last June, leaving him as a free agent. Serero has spent his recent months contemplating his future on the pitch, with the lure of the lucrative PSL encouraging several South African players to return home.
Recent signings like Kamohelo Mokotjo at Sekhukhune United and Thabo Cele at Kaizer Chiefs highlight this trend of players migrating back to the local league as its popularity and financial power grow.
Reports indicate Serero is not only training with Cape Town City but is also engaged in talks concerning a potential deal, though formal negotiations have yet to commence. His familiarity with interim coach Muhsin Ertugral—who coached Serero at Ajax Cape Town—adds another layer of intrigue to his return.
During his earlier career, Serero enjoyed immense success, securing multiple awards during the 2010/11 season, including the Players’ Player of the Season and Footballer of the Year. This success earned him the opportunity to move abroad to Ajax Amsterdam, where he played for six years, winning three Eredivisie titles and competing at the highest levels, including the UEFA Champions League.
Following his tenure at Ajax, Serero moved to Vitesse Arnhem before transitioning to the Arabian Peninsula, where he played for Al-Jazira and, most recently, Khor Fakkan. The accolades and experiences he amassed abroad position him as one of the brightest talents to return to the PSL, attracting the interest of Cape Town City, who see him as a valuable addition to their squad.
Insiders suggest Serero may become Cape Town City's highest-paid player, especially following the recent sale of Keanu Cupido to Mamelodi Sundowns. The club is bolstering its squad as it seeks to compete at the top level of the league.
Serero's arrival not only excites the fans but also adds experience to the young squad at City. His previous accolades and international exposure could inspire and mentor younger players, helping to raise the overall standard of the team. Training under Ertugral, who has previously guided him, provides him with a familiar environment to make this transition smoother.
The return of players like Serero to the PSL is significant, as it demonstrates the increasing allure of the local league. With the financial backing and the improving quality of play, it is clear why so many South African talents have chosen to come back home.
Overall, Thulani Serero's possible return to competitive PSL football adds another compelling chapter to his storied career. His history of success combined with the promise of revitalizing the Cape Town City squad may herald the start of another exciting era for the team and the league as a whole.