As the transfer window edges closer to its final day on Monday, 22 September, all eyes are on Kaizer Chiefs and what moves they’ll make before midnight.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi has been open about one challenge he’s facing — the squad is simply too big.
With too many players and not enough game time to go around, the Tunisian tactician has hinted that loan deals are on the horizon, especially for youngsters and those struggling for consistency. The big question is: who will be packing their bags?
Samkelo Zwane – Midfield Talent Looking for Game Time
At 23, Samkelo Zwane was once tipped as the next breakout star after making his mark under Arthur Zwane in 2023.
With 36 senior games already behind him, his career looked promising. But last season he only managed 13 appearances, mostly off the bench.
This season? Not even a place among the substitutes in six matches. A loan move seems almost inevitable.
Happy Mashiane – A Left Back Needing a Fresh Start
Now 27, Happy Mashiane has seen his role at Naturena diminish drastically.
Last season he managed just nine cameo appearances and hasn’t featured in the squad at all this campaign.
With reports linking him to Durban City FC and Stellenbosch FC, a move elsewhere could revive his career.
Donay Jansen – A Family Name, but Still Waiting
As the nephew of Kaizer Chiefs legend Bernard Parker, Donay Jansen carries expectations.
But his loan spell at SuperSport United didn’t deliver much — just three appearances.
At 22, he still has time, but another loan move looks likely if he’s to get regular senior minutes.
Bontle Molefe – Goalkeeper Searching for Debut
For three years, Bontle Molefe has trained with the first team but has yet to make his senior debut.
With Bruce Bvuma, Brandon Petersen, and Fiacre Ntwari ahead of him in the pecking order, the 22-year-old shot-stopper needs to find a loan deal where he can finally prove his ability.
Thulani Mabaso – The Next Midfield Star in the Making
At just 19, Thulani Mabaso has already led the Kaizer Chiefs reserves to DStv Diski Challenge success.
He even trained with the senior squad in the Netherlands during pre-season, but he hasn’t debuted yet.
A loan spell could be the crucial step that helps him transition to the first team.
Tashreeq Morris – A Striker Out of Favour
Brought in last January from SuperSport United, Tashreeq Morris was meant to be the physical target man Nabi’s system needed.
But in 10 appearances, he’s failed to score and injuries haven’t helped his case.
Now, with new strikers Flavio da Silva and Etiosa Ighodaro offering more technical quality, Morris looks surplus to requirements.
His former coach Gavin Hunt is already circling with interest from Durban City FC.
Kabelo Nkgwesa – Fighting a Left-Back Traffic Jam
Only 19, Kabelo Nkgwesa finds himself stuck behind several senior left-backs: Paseka Mako, Nkanyiso Shinga, Bradley Cross, and Mashiane.
With so much competition, he hasn’t made a single 20-man squad this season. A loan seems the obvious way forward.
Naledi Hlongwane – A Young Striker Finding His Feet
Promoted from the reserve team, Naledi Hlongwane got his senior debut in the opening match against Stellenbosch FC due to injuries in the squad. While he showed promise, he hasn’t featured since.
A loan stint could give him the confidence and experience to grow into a regular first-team option.
Why Loans Could Be the Best Solution
For many of these players, a loan move isn’t the end — it’s a stepping stone.
Regular minutes elsewhere could help them sharpen their skills, rebuild confidence, and return stronger to fight for a spot under Nabi.
With just days left until the deadline, fans will soon find out who stays at Naturena and who leaves to gain experience elsewhere.