I dedicated most of my life to Chippa

For more than a decade, Andile “Aija” Mbenyane was a household name at Chippa United, carrying the club’s badge with pride from their early days in Cape Town to their move to the Eastern Cape. Known for his sharp eye for goal and unwavering commitment, the striker turned playmaker became one of the Chilli Boys’ longest-serving players, dedicating 15 years of his professional career to the team. Last year, Mbenyane decided to hang up his boots, closing an important chapter in South African football. But instead of stepping away completely, the 37-year-old has chosen to channel his passion into coaching, where he is already making strides in guiding young players at Komani United in the ABC Motsepe League, after cutting his teeth in the Chippa youth structures. In this interview with Soccer Laduma’s Masebe Qina, Mbenyane reflects on the emotional journey of retirement, the highs and lows of his playing career, his special bond with the Chippa United family, and his new mission of mentoring the next generation of stars.

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Masebe Qina: “Aija”, thank you for your time. First things first - how does it feel to officially step away from playing professional football?

Andile Mbenyane: Firstly, let me thank Soccer Laduma for giving me this platform to reflect on my career. Eish, Bra Masebe, you know, after retiring as a footballer, life becomes tough, because you've moved away from something you love dearly - playing football. But I'm at peace knowing that I played my part and witnessed a lot during my journey. Having started my professional career at Ajax Cape Town and then moving to Chippa United, I believe I showed my intentions clearly about wanting to succeed. I fulfilled a lot of what I set out to achieve. I played a big role at Chippa during the 15 years I spent with the team, and when I hung up my boots last year, I knew it was the right time. It was time to open up space for the younger ones coming through. Injuries were also starting to take their toll, and recovery was becoming longer and more frustrating. Eventually, I had to make the decision.

MQ: How tough was it to make that decision?

AM: As someone who had been with the club for so long, it was always going to be tough, but it had to be done. I couldn’t be selfish. I had to think about the young players coming through who are promising and needed that space. It was time to pass the baton. What made it easier was that I had already started showing interest in coaching. Whenever I got the chance, I worked with the younger players, guiding them on where they needed to improve. I had reached a stage where I was more mature and understood the importance of giving back - the same way it was done for me when I was young and dreaming of playing professionally. But let me be honest, retiring is never easy. That’s why I still play for the veterans, just to keep busy and stay connected to the game, because completely walking away is impossible (laughs).