Kaizer Chiefs Defender Teenage Habede Joins Turkish Side Yeni Malatyaspor

Zimbabwean defender Teenage Habede has joined Yeni Malatyaspor, the Turkish Super League side announced on Monday.

The Kaizer Chiefs player featured for the Zimbabwean Warriors during the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt where they finished bottom of Group A.

The 23-year-old, who began his career in Harare, is understood to have signed a two-year deal just under £1 million.

“EY Malatyaspor tied the colours of Zimbabwean national team stopper Teenage Hadebe,” Malatyaspor confirmed on their official website; “The 23-year-old is expected to join camp today.”

Malatyaspor, who finished fifth on the standings last season, are adding depth to their squad as they look to compete for the title in the coming season.

Hadebe spent two seasons with Kaizer Chiefs having joined from Zimbabwean giants Chicken Inn in 2017.

The defender, who played more than 30 Premier Soccer League games, sent an emotional message to the fans moments after Malatyaspor confirmed his capture.

“To all of you Khosi family! Chairman Kaizer Motaung and Bobby Motaung I’ll like to take this opportunity to thank you all for what you have done for me. I wouldn’t be where I am if it was not for you and I am very very grateful,” Habede posted on his Instagram page.

[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””] “I am a better player just because of you. I was an unknown when I came to South Africa, and you allowed me to showcase my talent. I don’t know how I could thank you because I’ll write a whole book for you.”   [/perfectpullquote]

“Once again thank you, thank you and for making my move happen. Khosi for life! And to all players and staff, I thank you again for the support that you gave me!”

The centre-back was key pillar in Zimbabwe’s defence, which praised for their performance by many of African football pundits, particularly for his display in 2019 Afcon opener against Egypt.