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KAIZER Chiefs forward Khama Billiat has opened up about his decision to join The Glamour Boys ahead of proposed overseas moves.
Billiat last month penned a three-year deal with Amakhosi, snubbing several reported offers from clubs in Africa and Europe.
The 27-year-old was supposedly unhappy with the contract renewal offer tabled by Mamelodi Sundowns prior to his departure, while his agent lined up a few options.
However, Billiat, having missed out on the chance to join Knowledge Musona at the Soweto side in 2009, says he had always waited for his turn to join the club, and when they swooped in at the 11th hour he could not resist the offer.
“I considered a lot of things — my family and everyone, and Kaizer Chiefs had been on top of everyone — showing love and interest in me. I respect that and I had no choice but only to come here,” explained Billiat.
“There was a couple of them (offers from overseas) and, I think Chiefs, I respected them. I’ve always wanted to play for them and I was just waiting for them to say something so that I could move.”
Another factor that ultimately tipped the Zimbabwean international in favour of a switch to Naturena was club football manager Bobby Motaung’s visit to his home in Harare, which he explained that he did not take lightly.
“It’s something that’s emotional man. You know, coming to see my parents and talking to them has never happened in my career, and it’s something I take with my heart,” he added.
“I really respect that, and my family supported that. They felt so respected, and that’s all I need is for my family to be happy.
So, I was so happy about it and I thank the club and Bobby for coming to see my parents and speaking to them.”
Billiat signed a three-year deal with Chiefs. Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane confirmed they offered Billiat a big-money deal, but lost to Chiefs.
According to Sport24, the Zimbabwean international is earning R10 million a year before tax, which comes up to R833 333 a month. After 38% tax, Billiat reportedly takes home R515 000 a month. — Kickoff/Citizen.
derick.khumalo