Neo Maema reveals the reason behind his explicit choice of Simba SC on loan! | OneFootball

Mamelodi Sundowns striker speaks very frankly.

Neo Maema reveals the reason behind his explicit choice of Simba SC on loan!

Mamelodi Sundowns loanee Neo Maema has finally addressed his decision to join Simba SC, despite receiving attention from Kaizer Chiefs.

The creative midfielder secured a season-long loan move to the Tanzanian powerhouse, prioritizing consistent playing opportunities after falling down the pecking order at Sundowns. His departure coincided with an exodus of several key figures from the club, as coach Miguel Cardoso streamlined his squad.

Maema confirmed that the Soweto giants, Kaizer Chiefs, had expressed a concrete desire to sign him. Ultimately, however, he opted for a path less traveled by South African players.

"I was aware [of the Chiefs’ interest] and it’s something that my agent also mentioned to me," Maema revealed on the Soccer Beat Podcast. "I sat down with my family and I told them that the only thing that will help me now is actually a completely new environment."

He emphasized that his goal was a significant change of scenery, ruling out a move to any other domestic club. "That was my decision, and the new environment was not going to be another club in South Africa. I think it has to be outside of South Africa if I find an offer."