Kaizer Chiefs begin squad rebuild as eight stars prepare for transfers

Kaizer Chiefs reserves coach Vela Khumalo says the club will field a largely new-look side in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) next season, with eight players set to go out on loan to Motsepe Foundation Championship (MFC) clubs.

Chiefs have already seen defender Bobo Sima join Botswana Premier League outfit Mochudi Chiefs on loan, while Naledi Hlongwane and Thulani Mabaso have earned promotions to the senior team.

Speaking to the Sowetan, Khumalo confirmed that most of the players who featured in last week’s match against Richards Bay will be loaned out, meaning they will once again rebuild the squad.

“We have eight of our players going on loan to different teams in the first division. Mabaso and Hlongwane are heading to the first team,”
— Vela Khumalo, Kaizer Chiefs reserves coach

He added that Mabaso has played his final DDC match, while Hlongwane may feature once more before fully joining the senior setup.

“Mabaso, you will never see him again in the DDC. He played last week. I’m going to try to have Hlongwane play his last game because he is with the first team also. Most of the players who played last week are leaving.”

Despite losing many talented youngsters over the years, Khumalo says the development success at Chiefs is something he is extremely proud of.

“This is the proudest moment… when you see them going up there; the list is endless,” he said.

He went on to name several academy graduates who have progressed successfully, including Mduduzi Shabalala, Pitso Dithejane, Khulumani Ndamane, Wandile Duba, Omega Mdaka, and Aden McCarthy, among others.

“These players cannot stay in the DDC forever. Yes, we want to win the league, but the main priority is to help these boys grow and further their careers at the highest level.”

Chiefs face Mamelodi Sundowns in their next DDC fixture at KaNyamazane Stadium in Mpumalanga on Sunday at noon. Khumalo expects a demanding contest.

“It’s going to be a tough and hectic one. Sundowns want to win the league, but we’re the defending champions, and we’re fifth with a game in hand. If we win, we close the gap to four points.”