'Da Cruz is not the problem!' Kaizer Chiefs star among those urged to do more on the pitch

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernandez Da Cruz is not the problem at the club, according to former club winger Junior Khanye.

In the 2026/27 campaign, the Soweto giants have failed to deliver as expected following the changes that were made in both the technical team and the playing unit. First, they were eliminated from the MTN8 in the quarter-finals by Golden Arrows.

Bradley Cross, Osborn Maluleke — Bradley Cross of Kaizer Chiefs against Osborn Maluleke of Golden Arrows, Image: Arrows

In the Premier Soccer League, Amakhosi are already seven points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have played one more game as opposed to Chiefs’ seven. This puts them fourth in the log behind Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu, respectively.

Khanye argues that the club didn’t sign the quality players they needed to stage a strong challenge consistently.

Mthethwa among Chiefs’ problems?

“For me, Chiefs’ problem isn’t just about the coach. I feel they should have signed more quality players. I also feel there are players who should be doing more to give the club more in their performances, and (Sibongiseni) Mthethwa is one of those players,” Khanye said, as quoted by Soccer Laduma.

Sibongiseni Mthethwa of Kaizer Chiefs playing against Jayden Adams of Mamelodi Sundowns. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

“If he isn’t able to give the club more, then he might as well have been released. I’ve got nothing against the guy’s personality, and I respect him so much, but I don’t think he is giving the team what he should be giving.

“Compliments to Siphesihle Ndlovu and Lebohang Maboe. They have improved a lot and have been doing well, and they should keep up the good work because more of their improved performances will go a long way in helping the team going forward.

“I need to be honest and compliment the guys because there has been a good change, and their improved performances in midfield have contributed to the team,”

The Impressive Phili

Langelihle Phili is among the new faces at the club but is currently nursing an injury.

“I have been impressed with Phili, but you need more players of such quality because he can’t do it alone,” Khanye further explained.

“Unfortunately, he also got injured, and that affected the team and what they were trying to do. Why didn’t Chiefs sign more players if they really needed to challenge for honours this season?”