Da Cruz gives Kaizer Chiefs transfer ultimatum - ‘We have to be less predictable’

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz has revealed his intention to significantly reinforce the team’s attack, targeting four new offensive players despite recently securing Khanyisa Mayo on a permanent deal.

Speaking to the media for the first time at Naturena on Friday, ahead of a Toyota Cup match against Zimbabwean side Scottland, Da Cruz detailed his squad-building strategy.

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

He emphasised the need for fresh attacking talent and indicated that midfielder Glody Lilepo is likely to leave the club.

“There are four positions offensively: a striker, new wingers, and an attacking midfielder,” Da Cruz stated, signaling his expectations to the club’s management.

Da Cruz on why Chiefs need new attackers

“We have good profiles, but we asked management to get different profiles so that we can play different football and be less predictable,” he explained. “With Lilepo, there are other opportunities, and management are hoping to release him. They are in discussions.”

✌️ @KaizerChiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz on the areas the team still needs to reinforce, targeting offensive areas.

🔸Depth and balance of the squad?
🔸The profiles of the additions needed.
🔸Compares the squad composition from 2 years ago. #SABCSport411 | @AFC_2025 |… pic.twitter.com/ZrBZsHaTA4
— Velile Mnyandu 🇿🇦 (@Velile_Mnyandu) July 24, 2026

Looking ahead to the season, the coach expressed his ambition to compete for the Betway Premiership title and pursue success in all competitions.

“We will play every game to win,” he declared. “The championship is a marathon. You will not win it in December or January. You have to be close to the other teams in March or April. There are also the different cups and we want to win every game and every trophy.”

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz and his players in pre-season. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

Amakhosi fans keen on instant success

Chiefs have not won the league since 2015 with the 2025 Nedbank Cup the only trophy they have claimed during that period, leading to frustrations among fans.

Kaizer Chiefs new signing Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

Pressure is therefore on Da Cruz to hit the ground running as the supporters are not ready for another period of rebuilding especially after the team finished third last season.

Chiefs have made reinforcements in other areas following the signing of goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner, midfielder Adolf Mtasingwa and defender Thabo Moloisane and need new attacking players given their low goal output in 2025-26 added to the imminent departure of Lilepo.