Fiston Kalala Mayele’s journey from the streets of Mbuji-Mayi in the Democratic Republic of Congo to the summit of African football is a story of perseverance, talent, and perfect timing. Once a rising star in the Congolese league, Mayele has now become one of the most sought-after strikers on the continent — and Kaizer Chiefs are making moves to bring him to Naturena.
The Rise of a Goal Machine
Born in 1994, Mayele began his professional career at AS Vita Club, where his goal-scoring instincts were quickly recognized. He struck 26 goals in 42 appearances, earning him a transfer to Tanzanian giants Young Africans SC in 2021.
In Tanzania, under coach Nasreddine Nabi, Mayele transformed from a promising forward into a lethal finisher. Over two seasons, he scored an astonishing 50 goals in just 54 appearances, helping Yanga SC win consecutive Tanzanian Premier League titles and reach the final of the CAF Confederation Cup.
Making History with Pyramids FC
Mayele’s form caught the eye of Egyptian powerhouse Pyramids FC, who signed him in 2023. His impact was immediate. In the 2024/25 CAF Champions League, he emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals, including the opener in a dramatic final against Mamelodi Sundowns. That goal not only secured a historic first continental title for Pyramids FC but also cemented Mayele’s status as a continental icon.
Chiefs Eye a Reunion
Now, Kaizer Chiefs are hoping to bring Mayele to South Africa, aiming to end their nine-year trophy drought. Leading the charge is none other than his former mentor, Nasreddine Nabi, who is rumored to be taking over the coaching reins at Naturena. Nabi is believed to view Mayele as the key piece in his strategy to rebuild the once-dominant club.
Negotiations may be on the horizon, with reports suggesting Pyramids FC has lowered its asking price to around R10 million. That reduction has sparked renewed interest from Chiefs, who had previously hesitated due to the striker’s age and contract length — Mayele is tied to Pyramids until June 2026.
The Hunt’s Backing
Former SuperSport United and Chiefs coach Gavin Hunt has publicly supported the move, saying Mayele could easily become a 30-goal-a-season striker in the DStv Premiership. "He’s the kind of player who can change a team’s fortunes overnight,” Hunt said. “If Chiefs get him, they could win a treble.”
What’s Next for Mayele?
While Pyramids FC are eager to keep their star man, offering a contract extension, the pull of working again with Nabi and the opportunity to lead a revival at one of South Africa’s biggest clubs may prove irresistible.
Mayele’s story is far from over. But from DR Congo to Tanzania, Egypt, and possibly South Africa, his journey has already made him a symbol of African football excellence — and his next move could reshape the power dynamics of the continent’s club scene.
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