Kaizer Chiefs News Today: Midfielder handed new deal, Lilepo U-turn, trophy promise & more

The latest Kaizer Chiefs news in the last 24 hours, including a new contract for a midfielder, Fernando Da Cruz’s trophy target and the coach opening the door to a Glody Lilepo U-turn.

Mthethwa’s future settled

Kaizer Chiefs have moved to keep Sibongiseni Mthethwa at Naturena for at least one more season after triggering the option in the midfielder’s contract.

The former Stellenbosch FC man’s initial deal expired at the end of June, but Amakhosi retained a one-year option, which the club have now decided to activate.

According to KickOff, a source close to Chiefs says the 32-year-old agreed to stay on after a productive meeting with the club’s hierarchy this week, with the same source describing the outcome as “a mutual feeling” and suggesting the player still has unfinished business in Soweto.

Nicknamed “Ox”, Mthethwa arrived from Stellenbosch in September 2023 and has been a divisive figure across three seasons at the club, but the new technical team clearly see a role for him as a midfield anchor in the rebuild.

Da Cruz makes trophy promise

Fernando Da Cruz has set an ambitious tone for the 2026/27 campaign, declaring that Chiefs will chase every piece of silverware available while the club continues to reshape the squad.

Speaking at Chiefs Village on Friday, the 53-year-old Frenchman confirmed Amakhosi are actively pursuing four attacking signings before the transfer window shuts — a striker, new wingers and an attacking midfielder.

The coach was equally clear that the league title will not be decided early. He described the Premiership as a marathon, warning that no side wins it in December or January and that the real test is staying close to the pace-setters by March and April.

Door open for Lilepo, shut for Cele

Da Cruz also used his pre-match press conference to clarify the futures of two players left behind when the squad travelled to Spain.

The coach revealed that Glody Lilepo would still be welcome back into the fold, with the DR Congo winger free to return and compete for a place should his proposed move away collapse. Lilepo has been negotiating an exit, and Da Cruz confirmed management are in discussions and hoping to release him.

The 28-year-old contributed 15 goals and five assists in 56 appearances for Amakhosi before being omitted from the pre-season tour.