Kaizer Chiefs News Today: Why Da Cruz could be the right man, Mailula transfer opportunity & more

Latest Kaizer Chiefs news, including the growing argument that the Frenchman Fernando da Cruz could be the man to restore Amakhosi’s lost glory, and a transfer angle as Cassius Mailula becomes a free agent.

Da Cruz: Why this could be the right man

The appointment of Fernando da Cruz has been met with cautious optimism, and there are credible reasons to believe it could prove transformative.

Kaizer Chiefs remain one of the most supported clubs in South Africa, yet the club has not won the Betway Premiership since 2015, leaving supporters waiting over a decade for sustained domestic dominance.

Da Cruz brings extensive coaching experience across diverse environments, having worked across the world from Lille to the Moroccan Football Federation.

Coach Fernando da Cruz is now fully in the building, stepping into his role with clear intent, strong leadership, and a shared belief in what this team can become.

With the full technical team in place, the focus is clear. Every drill matters. Every detail counts. Every day is a… pic.twitter.com/fjj43n7VCD

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) July 2, 2026

Crucially, his time on the continent means he already understands the unique pressures of African football, including demanding travel schedules, passionate supporters, intense media scrutiny, and the expectation to deliver results while simultaneously building for the future.

A strong backroom staff is being assembled around him, featuring a blend of local and international experts, and the 2025/26 season already showed green shoots of progress at the club.

If given sufficient time and backing, the argument is that Da Cruz possesses the experience, discipline, and tactical understanding to guide Amakhosi back to glory.

Mailula opportunity for Kaizer Chiefs?

On the transfer front, South African forward Cassius Mailula has become available after parting ways with MLS side Toronto FC, putting Chiefs and other PSL clubs on alert.

The 25-year-old endured a difficult spell in North America, making just eight first-team appearances for Toronto and scoring twice during his time there. He departed by mutual consent after his contract was terminated six months early.

➡️ OFFICIAL: Mailula Leaves Toronto FC❗

Striker Cassius Mailula has become a free agent after leaving Major League Soccer side Toronto FC.

MORE: https://t.co/MJbkaQ3eqe pic.twitter.com/uQ8ydgvvZ2

— Soccer Laduma (@Soccer_Laduma) July 2, 2026

Mailula spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Belgian Challenger Pro League side K.V. Kortrijk, where he managed just three appearances. Kortrijk went on to earn promotion to the Belgian top flight but confirmed they would not be retaining the forward.

His representatives, P Management, confirmed the departure on social media, leaving Mailula free to seek a new club after what has been a turbulent few years since his standout debut season at Mamelodi Sundowns.