Inacio Miguel explains why Aden McCarthy is a model for Kaizer Chiefs prospects

McCarthy, the son of former Chiefs defender Fabian McCarthy, established himself in the first team during the 2025/26 season before securing a move to Azerbaijan Premier League side Sabah FK.

The 22-year-old has already started making his mark in his new surroundings, completing 90 minutes in Sabah's 2-0 league victory over Kapaz PFK on August 15.

For Miguel, however, McCarthy's biggest achievement was not simply earning a move abroad but developing the right mentality to make the transition from academy football to the professional game.

"Aden should be an example for all youngsters, not only at Chiefs but in South Africa," Miguel said, as quoted by Phakaaathi.

The Portuguese defender believes McCarthy remained grounded despite breaking into the first team and was always focused on improving rather than becoming satisfied with his early success.

"He was humble enough to understand that when he arrived in the first team, he focused on his next move, on what he should do and what he should not do," Miguel explained.

"He is a very hard worker; he knows where he wants to go and that is why he is at Sabah now. He had this clear in his mind, that Chiefs was not enough. You have to want the next step."

Miguel also highlighted the role played by Fabian McCarthy in helping his son navigate his development.

According to Miguel, Aden's discipline extended beyond training, with the youngster paying close attention to recovery and maintaining his fitness.

The Chiefs defender also believes the club is doing its part to prepare young players for the pressures of senior football.

With a psychologist and former DStv Diski Challenge coach Dillon Sheppard involved in the transition, Miguel feels Chiefs are helping academy graduates understand that reaching the first team is only the beginning.

"You have to arrive and conquer and then go abroad. That is what Aden did and I am very proud of him," Miguel said.