Kaizer Chiefs blow as key forward is ruled out for two months

Kaizer Chiefs forward Khanyisa Mayo is set to miss the first month of the 2026/27 season after undergoing a hernia operation.

The striker reportedly had the procedure shortly after the conclusion of the last campaign. As a result, he did not join the Amakhosi squad for their pre-season tour in Spain under new head coach Fernando da Cruz.

Mayo played a role in the Glamour Boys’ most successful season in six years, where they secured a third-place finish in the Premier Soccer League under the previous technical team of Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef.

Injury-plagued Kaizer Chiefs start

Throughout the season, the forward made 15 appearances across all competitions, finding the net twice. His limited output was attributed to injuries and his readjustment to the PSL.

Initially joining on loan from Algerian club CR Belouizdad in September of last year, Mayo’s move to the Soweto giants has been made permanent. However, the start to his first full season as a contracted Chiefs player has been postponed.

According to SABC, Mayo is only expected to resume full training within the next two months. The former Cape Town City player’s debut season at Naturena was hampered by a series of injuries that affected his availability and consistency.

Which fixtures will Mayo miss?

Consequently, Mayo is likely to be sidelined for Chiefs’ MTN8 fixture against Golden Arrows and the initial rounds of the new PSL season as he continues his rehabilitation.

The 27-year-old is now aiming for a September return, likely after the FIFA international break. He will then begin his fight for a starting position as Da Cruz ushers in a new era at the club.

For the time being, Mayo will focus on his recovery programme while his teammates prepare for the upcoming season without him as an attacking option.