Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Reneilwe Letsholonyane believes defender Xolani Cossa is making encouraging progress towards becoming a regular at the Betway Premiership level amid reported interest from TS Galaxy.
The 22-year-old centre-back, who previously captained Chiefs’ reserve side, moved to Botswana club Black Lions before the current season and has since established himself in senior football.
Galaxy are believed to be assessing defensive options following the departure of former Chiefs development graduate Khulumani Ndamane to Mamelodi Sundowns earlier this year, with Cossa emerging as one of the players on their radar.
Now coaching in Botswana with Matebele FC, Letsholonyane says the defender’s decision to test himself abroad has had a positive impact on his development.
“A lot of people underestim
“He came from DDC football and stepped into top-flight football here, which is a big adjustment.”
WHAT LETSHOLONYANE THINKS OF TS GALAXY TARGET COSSA
Although Black Lions have struggled for consistency this season, the former Bafana Bafana midfielder feels Cossa has handled the transition well.
“It’s his first season at this level, so naturally, there’s still room for improvement, but overall, he has done well,” he said.
Letsholonyane added that playing regularly in Botswana has strengthened the defender’s chances of eventually securing a move back to South Africa’s top division.
“Playing consistently at this level brings him much closer to competing in bigger leagues,” he explained.
Still, the former Amakhosi star cautioned that the young defender may need more time before becoming an instant success in the PSL.
“I wouldn’t say he’s fully ready to go there and dominate immediately, but he’s definitely ahead of where he was before.”
The retired midfielder also stressed the importance of young South African footballers gaining early exposure abroad in their careers.
“When players experience football in a different environment, they return with a broader understanding of the game and that helps their growth,” he said.
Letsholonyane believes Cossa’s mentality could ultimately help him rise into one of the country’s standout defenders.
“He’s disciplined, focused and hardworking. If he continues on this path, he can become one of the top left centre-backs in South Africa.”