Kaizer Chiefs have been busy this season, bringing in a total of 10 new players as they try to reclaim their place at the top of South African football.
Among those new signings, two names are already turning heads — Lebogang Maboe and Luke Baartman.
And surprisingly, one of the club’s biggest critics, former star Junior Khanye, has nothing but praise for these moves.
Junior Khanye Gives Rare Approval
Khanye, who is well-known for his outspoken views on Chiefs, didn’t hold back his admiration for the scouting team this time.
He admitted that the club finally got it right with Maboe and Baartman.
“It’s good that Chiefs could sign Maboe. It’s the first time I agree with them,” Khanye told Soccer Laduma.
“I compliment whoever identified this guy and Luke Baartman. They did the right thing.”
For a man who often highlights what the club gets wrong, this nod of approval is a big deal.
Why Maboe Could Be a Game-Changer
Khanye believes Maboe is exactly the kind of player Amakhosi have been missing. The 40-year-old described him as one of the best defensive midfielders in the country — fearless, comfortable on the ball, and a player who can connect defence to attack with ease.
“Maboe is hard-working, very experienced, and has played at the highest level, including the Champions League with Sundowns.
Chiefs really needed someone like him,” Khanye explained. “Now the coach just has to use him the right way.”
Praise for Luke Baartman Too
While Maboe takes most of the spotlight, Khanye also made sure to highlight Baartman’s potential.
For him, both signings show that Chiefs are beginning to make smart, calculated decisions in the transfer market — something he hasn’t said about them in a long time.
Can Chiefs Turn Signings into Silverware?
Despite his praise, Khanye isn’t fully convinced that these new arrivals will translate into trophies this season.
The Soweto giants may currently sit second in the Betway Premiership after four matches, but Khanye thinks consistency and squad depth will still be an issue.
The Big Question: Will Maboe Shine Again?
For Maboe, joining Chiefs represents more than just a fresh start — it’s a chance to revive his career after injuries and setbacks in recent years.
If he settles in quickly, his experience and composure could give Chiefs the edge they’ve been missing in midfield.
Whether that will be enough to push them to silverware remains to be seen.
