After finally ending a decade-long trophy drought with their Nedbank Cup victory over Orlando Pirates in June, Kaizer Chiefs are taking no chances heading into the new season.
Fans were expecting the club to not just celebrate, but also strengthen a team that finished a disappointing ninth in the Betway Premiership last season, missing out on the MTN8 entirely.
Major Departures Open the Door for Change
The overhaul started with departures. Nine players left the club, including early exits from Sabelo Radebe and Mduduzi Mdantsane.
On top of that, Samkelo Zwane and Happy Mashiane were sent out on loan to Siwelele FC this week, signaling a clear shift in squad strategy.
Exciting New Additions Bring Fresh Energy
On the incoming side, the Phefeni Glamour Boys were busy.
Kaizer Chiefs made 12 new signings, with Khanyisa Mayo immediately making waves as a player to watch this season.
Meanwhile, youth prospects Kabelo Nkgwesa, Thulani Mabaso, and Naledi Hlongwane were promoted to the senior squad.
So far, Hlongwane has made the only appearance among them, coming off the bench in the opening 2-0 win over Stellenbosch.
Full Kaizer Chiefs Squad After Transfer Window
Goalkeepers: Brandon Petersen, Fiacre Ntwari, Bruce Bvuma, Karabo Molefe
Defenders: Given Msimango, Rushwin Dortley, Inacio Miguel, Zitha Kwinika, Aden McCarthy, Bradley Cross, Paseka Mako, Nkanyiso Shinga, Reeve Frosler, Thabiso Monyane, Dillan Solomons, Kabelo Nkgwesa
Midfielders: Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Siphesihle Ndlovu, Thulani Mabaso, Thabo Cele, Mduduzi Shabalala, Lebohang Maboe, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Ethan Chislett, Lehlogonolo Matlou
Forwards: Mfundo Vilakazi, Gaston Sirino, Pule Mmodi, Glody Lilepo, Donay Jansen, Asanele Velebayi, Etiosa Ighodaro, Khanyisa Mayo, Ashley du Preez, Wandile Duba, Tashreeq Morris, Flavio Silva, Luke Baartman, Naledi Hlongwane
Depth and Options Across the Pitch
With a refreshed 39-player roster, Kaizer Chiefs now have options across every position.
This gives the coaching staff flexibility to rotate players and strengthen the squad as they aim to climb the Betway Premiership table and compete in multiple tournaments, including the Carling Knockout, Nedbank Cup, and CAF Confederation Cup.
Free Agents Could Still Join
Although the transfer window has closed, Kaizer Chiefs can still bring in new players—but only those without a club, known as free agents.
This leaves the door open for strategic signings if opportunities arise.