Concerns Over Kaizer Chiefs’ Interest in Older Players
Former Kaizer Chiefs captain Lifa Gqosha has expressed concerns over his former club’s recent interest in Mamelodi Sundowns’ players, particularly Thembinkosi Lorch.
Gqosha’s disappointment stems from the fact that Lorch, a former Orlando Pirates star, has had a slow period in his career, and now Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly keeping an eye on him.
For Chiefs supporters, Lorch’s name is all too familiar, given his long tenure at Pirates where he became a key figure, often frustrating the Chiefs side in their iconic Soweto Derby battles.
Gqosha, however, is questioning whether it’s wise for the club to sign a player who’s 31 years old and coming off a less-than-ideal spell in his career.
Are Chiefs Becoming a Retirement Home?
In a candid assessment, Gqosha raised concerns about the trend of signing older players, suggesting that the club may be heading toward becoming a “retirement village” instead of focusing on youth development.
“Are we becoming a retirement village?” Gqosha questioned.
“It feels like we’re turning into an old age home.
” He acknowledges that experience is important in building a team, but he also questions whether Chiefs really need more experienced players, especially given the talent already at their disposal.
He further argued that the focus should be on nurturing younger talent.
“When building a team, you must invest in youngsters,” Gqosha emphasized.
While he doesn’t question Lorch’s abilities, he wonders how long someone at 31 can continue playing at a high level.
The Debate on Signing Experienced Players
Gqosha doesn’t deny that taking on such opportunities could be tempting, especially for a player looking to secure a final payday.
However, he believes that bringing in players who are nearing the end of their careers won’t solve Chiefs’ underlying issues.
“Ultimately, I don’t believe that such a signing would help solve Kaizer Chiefs’ problems,” he stated.
“For me, it’s a definite no.”
The Case for Themba Zwane
It’s not just Lorch who’s on Chiefs’ radar; the club is also reportedly eyeing another Sundowns veteran—35-year-old Themba Zwane.
According to sources, Kaizer Chiefs may look to sign Zwane, whose contract is nearing its end at Sundowns.
With only five months left on his deal, it could present an opportunity Chiefs might not want to pass up.
Zwane’s name is not unfamiliar to Chiefs fans, as the club has a history of signing players from Sundowns after their contracts expire.
Recent examples include Gaston Sirino, who joined Chiefs after his contract with Sundowns ended in June 2024.
Other notable signings from Sundowns include Josta Dladla, Khama Billiat, and Leonardo Castro, all of whom made the move to Naturena as free agents.
Is This the Right Move for Chiefs?
With these older players on the radar, many are questioning whether Kaizer Chiefs are making the right move by bringing in experienced but aging talent.
Should the club continue looking toward players in the twilight of their careers, or is it time to focus more on building a younger, more dynamic team?
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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