The last time Cassius Mailula played for South Africa’s senior national team Bafana Bafana was against Liberia in March 2023, when he was still in the books of Mamelodi Sundowns.

Since then, the 24-year-old has been snubbed by Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, and with good reason, because Mailula has been battling at club level.

A move to Major League Soccer (MLS) side Toronto FC has not worked out for him, and a loan stint at Wydad Casablanca last season reminded the nation why he was in the national team in the first place.

Wydad were keen to make the deal permanent after he impressed, but the move did not materialise, and Mailula has now transferred to Belgian second division club KV Kortrijk, harbouring hopes of a return to the national team to add to his two appearances ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in December.

“The reason I chose KV Kortrijk is mainly because it is in Europe, and that’s also my dream. I want to play for a big club in Europe, and this is a good stepping stone for me to take my career further to a higher level,” said Mailula.

“Also, the team will give me a chance to get back to Bafana Bafana. I’m really impressed with the way the team plays. It’s something that made me choose this club; they have a winning mentality.”

Mailula added, “My ambition here, firstly, is to get back to the First Division (the Premier League of Belgium) with the club and also have as many goals throughout the season and also many assists; that’s my goal. I didn’t just come here for a holiday. I came here to work hard and to represent my family and also my country.

“It means a lot for me to be here, and I know there are a lot of kids who would take this opportunity with both hands.”

SA goalkeeper Darren Keet previously played for KV Kortrijk, making over 140 appearances between 2011 and 2016.