Grounded and focused, Dolly eyes right move for career and family

Keagan Dolly is now wiser, more grounded, and family-focused — and that’s why his next move must align with the plans he has set for both the present and the future.

Dolly was released by TS Galaxy at the end of the season, having joined the club late last year as a free agent. He made 18 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals and helping the team secure a Top 8 finish in the Betway Premiership.

His departure from Galaxy raised eyebrows, considering the value he brought both on and off the field, particularly in mentoring younger players. But the 32-year-old has firmly closed that chapter and is determined to make a strong return to the Bafana Bafana fold.

Dolly is part of the Bafana squad set to compete in the African Nations Championship (CHAN), which gets underway next month in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The tournament features only players active in their domestic leagues.

After Bafana’s 1-1 draw with Angola in a behind-closed-doors training match this week, the former Kaizer Chiefs captain opened up about his exit from Galaxy.

“It’s part of football,” Dolly said. “I’m 32 now and have been travelling a lot. I’ve realised you don’t stay at one club forever.

“There comes a time when you have to move. That’s what happened at TS Galaxy. We couldn’t reach an agreement, and that’s football.

“I’m just happy to be part of the national team setup again. I still want to play and enjoy football — that’s all I want right now.

“I also want to be present for my family. I’m enjoying myself, and I still feel like I can play for a few more years.”

Dolly was clear about the kind of project he’s looking for next.

“If the right project comes — something that aligns with where I am in life, and my family’s schedule — then I’ll be happy to join,” he said.

The nurturer in Dolly still exists, but at this stage of his career, self-preservation and happiness have taken priority.

“I’m looking for a club that has ambitions to compete for trophies and achieve its goals — a club that sees the bigger picture,” he explained.

“Most importantly, a club that will give me the freedom to be myself and enjoy football again — not worry about what’s happening around the club.

“I want to return to the Ajax Cape Town days — when all that mattered was playing football and having fun.”

At CHAN, Dolly is expected to play a leading role. Head coach Molefi Ntseki will rely on his experience to guide the squad, particularly when pressure mounts during the tournament.

Dolly and Ntseki have worked together before — both at Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs, where Ntseki served as technical director. For now, though, Dolly remains focused on the national team.

“My focus is here with Bafana. I’m trying to help the youngsters — there’s Ntando Nkosi, who’s a very talented player,” Dolly said.

“There are two players from Gomorrah who are also very exciting. So, for me, it’s about playing my role and helping them along the way.”