Kaizer Chiefs could be forced into more difficult squad decisions when the January transfer window opens, with three players facing uncertain futures at Naturena.
The Amakhosi have already been active in the current transfer window, bringing in five new players, with Khanyisa Mayo completing a permanent move to the club.
However, the additions have not completely solved Fernando Da Cruz’s problems. Chiefs have struggled to maintain consistency after a positive start to the campaign, with four draws and just one victory from their last five matches leaving them further behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.
New Arrivals Increase Competition for Places
Several of Chiefs’ new signings have made encouraging impressions.
Langelihle Phili, Renaldo Leaner and Faiz Abrahams have particularly caught the eye during the early stages of their Amakhosi careers, giving Da Cruz more options as he attempts to find his preferred combination.
The influx of new players has inevitably increased competition throughout the squad.
That has already contributed to the departures of several established players, including Thabo Cele, Ashley Du Preez, Given Msimango and Gaston Sirino.
With another transfer window less than 100 days away, further changes could follow.
Ngcobo Needs to Force His Way Back Into the Picture
Nkosingiphile Ngcobo is one player whose position at Naturena has become increasingly uncertain.
The midfielder has struggled to establish himself as a consistent first-team player in recent seasons, while reports of a possible departure surfaced before the previous transfer window closed.
Ngcobo ultimately remained with Chiefs, but his situation could change if he fails to convince Da Cruz that he deserves a long-term role.
Contract Situation Could Influence Ngcobo’s Future
Ngcobo’s contract is another factor that could influence the club’s decision.
With his current deal scheduled to expire at the end of the season, Chiefs could face a choice between extending his contract or finding a solution during the January window.
A loan or permanent transfer could therefore become an option if the midfielder remains outside Da Cruz’s preferred plans.
For Ngcobo, the period leading up to January represents an important opportunity to change the perception surrounding his future.
Mako’s Fitness Could Determine His Chiefs Career
Paseka Mako is another player whose future could depend heavily on what happens over the next few months.
The former Orlando Pirates left-back joined Chiefs last season but has struggled to build momentum because of recurring injury problems.
His situation is complicated by the fact that Chiefs do not have an abundance of depth at left-back.
That lack of alternatives could keep Mako relevant to Da Cruz’s plans, provided he can overcome his fitness problems and return to consistent first-team action.
Competition Could Make Things Difficult for Mako
Mako’s position could become more precarious if Chiefs strengthen at left-back.
Should Da Cruz bring in another option while Mako continues to struggle with injuries, the club could reassess his position within the squad.
His performances after returning to fitness are therefore likely to play an important role in determining whether he remains part of Chiefs’ plans beyond the January window.
Shinga Has Had Little Time to Impress
Nkhanyisa Shinga faces a different challenge.
Unlike Ngcobo and Mako, whose situations have been shaped by a combination of form and fitness, Shinga has had very little opportunity to establish himself since joining Chiefs.
The left-back has made only one official appearance for the club before an injury interrupted his progress.
That has left him with limited opportunities to demonstrate his value to Da Cruz.
Shinga Must Make His Return Count
The increasing competition within the Chiefs squad means Shinga could have a difficult battle when he eventually returns to full fitness.
Da Cruz is continuing to reshape the team, while new arrivals have created additional competition for starting positions.
Shinga will therefore need to take advantage of any opportunities that come his way if he is to convince the coach that he should remain part of the project.
His contract situation could add further pressure, particularly if the club has to decide whether to extend his stay.
January Could Bring Another Chiefs Overhaul
The situations involving Ngcobo, Mako and Shinga illustrate the difficult decisions Da Cruz could face as he continues rebuilding the Chiefs squad.
The club has already demonstrated its willingness to make significant changes, both through recruitment and departures.
If the team’s inconsistent form continues and more additions are deemed necessary, January could bring another wave of movement at Naturena.
For the three players in question, their performances, fitness and ability to convince Da Cruz over the coming months could prove crucial to determining their futures with Kaizer Chiefs.
