As the Kaizer Chiefs gear up for the next season, the spotlight is already shifting toward exciting young talent—while some familiar names may not be part of the club’s future plans.
A New Star Emerges: Hlongwane Signs His First Senior Deal
Kaizer Chiefs are welcoming a fresh face to their senior squad.
After impressing with 11 goals and two assists in the DStv Diski Challenge, 19-year-old striker Hlongwane has officially signed his first professional contract.
The young forward from Sebokeng has been quietly working with the first team since December 2024, alongside 21-year-old defender Aden McCarthy.
According to FARPost, the club is set to make Hlongwane’s promotion public before the 2025/26 season kicks off.
His arrival marks the seventh youth player the club has promoted since 2020—joining names like Mduduzi Tshabalala, Wandile Duba, and Mfundo Vilakazi in what appears to be a long-term strategy of grooming talent from within.
Youth Promotions Gaining Momentum at Naturena
Hlongwane is the latest in a line of young players who’ve earned their way into the senior setup.
Here’s the full list of recent promotions over the past five years:
-
Lebohang Lesako
-
Darrel Matsheke
-
Samkelo Zwane
-
Wandile Duba
-
Mduduzi Tshabalala
-
Mfundo Vilakazi
-
And now, Hlongwane
It’s clear Kaizer Chiefs are banking on youth to drive their resurgence.
Farouk Khan Waves a Red Flag on Lorch and Mbule
While there’s plenty of buzz around the club’s young blood, some transfer talk is being met with caution—particularly when it comes to Thembinkosi Lorch and Sipho Mbule.
Former Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach and development guru Farouk Khan has openly advised against signing either player, citing concerns that go beyond what they bring on the pitch.
Both players are set to become free agents soon—Lorch’s loan at Wydad Casablanca wraps up in June, while Mbule will exit Mamelodi Sundowns after his current loan spell at Sekhukhune United.
Still, Khan believes their potential off-field distractions outweigh their footballing talent.
“Good Players, Wrong Influence” Says Former Coach
Khan didn’t mince words during an interview with Soccer Beat. “They’re talented, no doubt,” he said, “but you can’t ignore the baggage they bring with them.”
He warned that signing players like Lorch and Mbule could disrupt the unity and spirit that Kaizer Chiefs are trying to build.
“Just look at what happened with Khama Billiat—brilliant player, but his off-field issues impacted the whole team environment,” Khan added.
For him, it’s not just about skill. “Discipline and mentality matter just as much.
A great team is built on players who are focused and don’t bring drama off the pitch.”
Fans Divided on the Future of Lorch and Mbule
Khan’s comments have stirred up quite a bit of debate. While some fans agree that team chemistry and professionalism should come first, others feel the club can’t afford to pass up on talent—even if it comes with a few risks.
The big question now is whether Kaizer Chiefs will take that gamble or stick with their youth-driven rebuild.