Kaizer Chiefs fans may finally be breathing a little easier this season, but according to outspoken analyst Junior Khanye, the club still has a long road ahead before it can dream of matching South Africa’s big guns. Chiefs look more organised, more confident, and far more competitive than they did last campaign — yet Khanye is holding off on giving full praise just yet.
“Better Than Last Season — But Let’s Not Get Carried Away”
Speaking on his YouTube channel and via Soccer Laduma, Khanye acknowledged that Amakhosi have taken a noticeable step forward. Unlike last season, where inconsistency and lack of direction frustrated supporters, this current squad seems to have found more rhythm. The club’s new signings have started settling in and, in his opinion, are adding real value on the pitch.
But improvement alone isn’t enough, he warned. Chiefs aren’t playing for progress — they’re chasing glory. And the expectations at Naturena have never been small.
The Real Test Lies Beyond the Local League
While the team has built excitement in the league, Khanye believes the ceiling might come crashing down once they enter continental action. The CAF Confederation Cup, he predicts, will expose any weaknesses that fans may be ignoring for now.
Facing seasoned African giants like Zamalek and ZESCO United won’t be anything like meeting emerging PSL sides such as Orbit College, he said. In Africa, the margins get thinner, pressure gets higher, and experience counts.
Local Competition Is Stepping Up — And Chiefs Need More Than Hope
Domestically, Khanye expects Chiefs to navigate matches against newer or developing clubs without too much drama. But when it comes to locking horns with hardened Premiership contenders, he isn’t convinced they’re ready. Teams with structure, squad depth, and a winning culture — the likes of Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns — still sit a level above.
And that, he believes, is where Amakhosi are still lagging. Talent isn’t the problem — the blueprint is.
“A Good Start Isn’t a Championship Formula Yet”
Khanye did not sugar-coat his prediction. For him, Chiefs aren’t ready to challenge for the league title, and breaking into the top three may be a stretch unless something dramatically shifts. Pirates and Sundowns, he argues, are simply better equipped right now — and there are other quietly competitive teams raising the bar too.
In simple terms: Chiefs look promising, but promise doesn’t win trophies. Structure, planning, and consistency do.
Are Kaizer Chiefs Truly Back?
Khanye’s message is clear — applaud the progress, but keep the champagne on ice. Amakhosi have begun climbing again, but whether they can reach the summit depends not just on talent and signings, but on building a strong system that can stand toe-to-toe with Africa’s best.
So, what do you think — is Khanye being harsh, or is he simply calling it like he sees it?