Luke Baartman, a young talent from Kaizer Chiefs, has acknowledged the challenges he faces at Naturena due to a lack of playing time this season.
At just 19, the forward joined Amakhosi in August 2025 after a stint with Cape Town Spurs ended following their demotion to the ABC Motsepe League.
However, gaining a spot in the Chiefs’ starting eleven has been an uphill battle for him.
This season, Baartman has appeared in only six matches across all competitions, most of which have been as a substitute.
His most recent appearance was in April, during a goalless encounter with Polokwane City in the Betway Premiership.
As he prepares for Kaizer Chiefs’ last league game against Chippa United, Baartman expressed his frustration about being on the sidelines.
“It’s good to be a Kaizer Chiefs player, but it’s been tough not playing regularly because there is a lot of competition,” he stated.
He detailed the challenge of joining games when the team is already facing adversity.
“When you come on while the team is losing, there’s pressure to attack quickly, and sometimes you lose the ball and must defend again,” he mentioned.
Despite the hurdles, the young player holds onto the importance of patience, committing himself to diligent training as he waits for an opportunity.
