Experienced winger Tabiso Mpame has surprisingly cut ties with Motsepe Foundation Championship side Casric Stars just six games into the new season.
After joining Casric in July 2023 following a stint with Cape Town Spurs, where he helped secure promotion to the South African top-flight, many were hopeful about his future at Casric.
However, the relationship soured quickly.
Mpame’s Previous Role at Casric
During his time with Casric, Mpame played in 10 matches last season, starting in just one game while coming off the bench for the remaining nine.
Despite his limited appearances, the club managed to secure a seventh-place finish in the league, collecting 43 points from 30 games.
While the team showed potential with 11 wins and 10 draws, it seems the winger’s situation at the club deteriorated behind the scenes.
The Conflict Begins: Personal vs. Professional Life
Mpame’s departure wasn’t without its complications.
The tension started earlier this year when Mpame had to return to Cape Town in January to care for his ill father.
This move sparked suspicions from the club, with management speculating that Mpame might have been training with another team during his absence.
Despite submitting a medical report to clear up any misunderstandings, the situation escalated.
Upon his return to the club in March 2024, Mpame found himself demoted to training with the reserve team and later practicing alone.
This sidelining continued into the new season, with Mpame not making a single appearance for Casric’s first team.
The winger made the tough decision to end his contract, citing frustration with the club’s handling of the situation and a toxic work environment.
A Tough Decision for Mpame
Speaking on the situation, Mpame was candid about how the ongoing issues affected him.
“As a professional player, you don’t want to be in a position where you’re terminating your contract, especially given the high unemployment rate in South Africa,” he explained.
“After talking with my family and girlfriend, I realized this was draining and frustrating. The unprofessionalism of how the team handled things made it necessary for me to step away.”
Mpame also highlighted the importance of mental strength and a healthy work environment in football, stating that without these, it’s impossible to perform at one’s best.
Escalating Problems After a Hijacking Incident
Things took an even darker turn for Mpame after he was hijacked at Hatfield Plaza in Pretoria on September 17, 2024.
While washing his car in the underground parking, he was attacked, though fortunately, the vehicle was later recovered.
When he reported the incident to Casric, the club’s response left him feeling unsupported.
Management reportedly dismissed the event, saying it occurred outside of work hours and insisted that Mpame report to duty or face fines.
“They showed no care for what I went through. I didn’t even receive a call to check if I was okay.
Instead, they told me to report to work, or I would be fined,” Mpame revealed, expressing his disappointment in the club’s lack of empathy.
This was the final straw for the winger, prompting him to explore new opportunities elsewhere.
Not the First to Speak Out Against Casric
Mpame isn’t the first player to raise concerns about Casric Stars.
Former club captain Maluleke Mathonsi also voiced his frustration about his departure, indicating a pattern of discontent within the team.
Mpame, who has also played in Europe for clubs like Cigli Belediye Spor, Goztepe, and Narlidere Spor, is now looking to move forward and find a fresh start.
What’s Next for Mpame?
With his departure from Casric Stars, Mpame is looking ahead to new possibilities.
His experience and versatility as a winger will likely attract attention from other clubs, both in South Africa and abroad.
As he moves forward, it remains to be seen where Mpame’s career will take him next, but one thing is clear—he’s ready for a fresh start.