Ex-Chiefs star hailed as 'one of the best in Austria'
by Lukhanyo Mtuta · KickOffFollowing Yusuf Maart’s contract extension, SV Ried’s sporting director has expressed his delight at retaining the South African, who he believes has already established himself among the best central midfielders in Austria.
Former Kaizer Chiefs star Maart signed a one-year contract extension with SV Ried this week, extending his stay until June 2028.
The 31-year-old joined the club in July 2025 from Amakhosi, signing an initial two-year contract.
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In recent months, speculation began to grow over Maart's future at SV Ried, with reports linking him with a move to fellow Austrian Bundesliga side SK Rapid Wien, while there were also links to the Middle East.
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Nevertheless, SV Ried sporting director Lukas Brandl has since revealed that there was indeed interest in Maart recently, but the club is glad to hold on to a player he considers one of the best in his position in the Austrian top flight.
"In his first Bundesliga season, Yusuf showed that he is one of the best central midfielders in Austria," Brandl told the club's official media.
"In addition, he has developed a very close relationship with our SV Oberbank Ried. Despite strong international interest in the summer, it was clear to both sides that we wanted to extend this relationship.
"We are pleased to have secured a constant who provides our team with great stability during this period of transition."
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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