A significant reshaping is already underway at Kaizer Chiefs as the Soweto club prepares for another demanding campaign in the Betway Premiership.
After finishing third last season—an improvement on recent years—the club has moved quickly to adjust both its technical team and playing squad.
One of the earliest major changes came in the coaching department, where the club parted ways with co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze.
In their place, Fernando da Cruz has been appointed as head coach, signalling a clear shift in direction as Chiefs aim to build on last season’s progress.
Player Movement Starts to Take Shape at Naturena
Squad changes have already begun to filter through at Naturena.
Young defender Aden McCarthy has officially left the club, completing a transfer to Azerbaijani champions Sabah FK, where he has signed a long-term deal with an option for extension.
There is also uncertainty surrounding winger Glody Lilepo, with reports suggesting he could be on his way out, although no official confirmation has been made by the club.
Chiefs are expected to remain active as they refine their squad ahead of pre-season.
Orlando Pirates Confirm Multiple Departures
Across Soweto, Orlando Pirates have also entered a period of transition following an impressive season that saw them secure a domestic treble.
Several players have now officially exited the club after the expiration of their contracts.
Among those leaving are Sipho Mbule, Karim Kimvuidi, Bandile Shandu, Gilberto, and Thabiso Lebitso.
Lebitso, a former defender for the Buccaneers, is among the more notable exits as the club begins trimming its squad in preparation for new arrivals.
Incoming Transfers Signal a Rebuild at Pirates
While departures have dominated headlines, Pirates have also acted swiftly in the transfer market to strengthen their squad depth.
New arrivals include Mthetheleli Mthiyane from Stellenbosch FC, who joined in a swap deal involving Lebitso, as well as Sbangani Zulu from Richards Bay and Bohale Ngwato from Siwelele FC. Ghampani Lungu has also been added to the roster from Siwelele FC, further boosting the club’s options.
The early business suggests a proactive approach as Pirates look to defend their domestic success while competing on multiple fronts.
European Pre-Season Plans Add Pressure for Final Squad Decisions
Both Chiefs and Pirates are expected to travel to Europe for pre-season training camps in the coming weeks, a move that will likely accelerate final decisions on squad composition.
These camps are traditionally used to assess new signings, test tactical systems, and finalise the core group of players for the season ahead.
With transfer activity still ongoing, both clubs are expected to make further adjustments before competitive football resumes.
A Defining Period for Soweto Giants
With contrasting achievements last season—Pirates lifting silverware and Chiefs showing signs of recovery—both clubs now face a crucial window of rebuilding and refinement.
The coming weeks are likely to determine not only squad depth but also the trajectory of their upcoming campaigns, as two of South Africa’s biggest football institutions prepare for another intense season of rivalry and expectation.
