It looks like change is in the air for Kaizer Chiefs, both on and off the pitch.
With midfielder Yusuf Maart reportedly heading to Austrian side SV Ried, the spotlight has now shifted to who will lead the Amakhosi into the new season.
And all signs are pointing to a familiar face stepping into that leadership role.
Yusuf Maart Bows Out After Historic Goal
Maart, who is 29, didn’t travel with his teammates for their pre-season tour in the Netherlands — a strong hint that his move abroad is already in motion.
Fans will remember him for one especially iconic moment: scoring the winning goal in the Nedbank Cup final, which ended the club’s 10-year trophy drought.
What’s surprising is that Maart had just put pen to paper on a new deal with the Chiefs last month.
But not long after, the former Sekhukhune United captain seems to have decided it was time to move on.
Miguel Inacio Steps Into the Captain’s Role
So, who’s taking over the captain’s armband? During the club’s pre-season matches in the Netherlands, Angolan international Miguel Inacio has been wearing it. And it’s not just a symbolic gesture.
Miguel actually wore the armband during parts of last season when Maart was unavailable, so he’s no stranger to the role.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi has been impressed with Miguel’s command of the field, his tactical awareness, and his ability to bring order during high-pressure moments.
The only real knock against him? He tends to pick up a few too many yellow cards.
Official Confirmation Still Pending
Kaizer Chiefs haven’t officially named Miguel as the new team captain, but the signs are pretty clear.
Starting all three pre-season matches with the armband suggests that the leadership handover is already in effect, even if it hasn’t been formally announced.
Could Thabo Cele Still Be in the Running?
There is, however, another contender in the mix. Thabo Cele, who joined the club in January, has also been quietly making a case for himself.
At 28, he brings maturity, a cool head, and an emerging leadership presence.
If for some reason Nabi decides to go a different direction, Cele could easily be next in line.
Amakhosi Wrap Up Pre-Season in the Netherlands
The team’s pre-season preparations in the Netherlands are expected to wrap up soon, with the squad set to return home later this week.
With that, fans are eagerly awaiting official news — not just about Maart’s departure, but also confirmation of who will wear the armband permanently.