During the 2023-24 campaign, the 25-year-old featured for C.D. Tondela, where the team fell short of promotion from Portugal Liga 2.
Despite the setback, Sithole made 24 appearances across all competitions for Tondela, netting two goals. Now, he’s been given a golden opportunity to shine in the Primeira Liga with Gil Vicente.
“Gil Vicente FC informs that it reached an agreement with player Yaya Sithole until the end of this season, on loan from CD Tondela, but with a purchase option,” the club shared in a statement on their website.
“The 25-year-old medium is a native of Durban, South Africa, and before arriving in Portugal he completed the training at the KZN Academy. In 2017/2018 he joined the under19 team of Sporting CP and the following year he had a short stint at Vitória FC, having, at the same time, followed to the under23 of B SAD, where he remained until 2022/2023, reaching the first team and made his debut in League games. Last season he played for CD Tondela, where he was guided by Tozé Marreco, a coach he now meets again at Gil Vicente FC,” the club concluded.
Sithole previously spoke out about his links with Chiefs, revealing that he was in talks with the club but no official offer was made.
He also mentioned that he loved Chiefs and couldn’t close the door on them. However, he has decided to continue with his career in Europe.
With the 2024/25 season in Portugal kicking off in August, Sithole is set to make his mark in top-flight football. Eager to seize this golden opportunity, he will be aiming for plenty of game time to stay at the top of his game.
By impressing on the field, it will boost his chances of remaining as one of the top contenders for Hugo Broos and Bafana Bafana.
