Stellenbosch FC has signaled a massive shift in ambition under new head coach Gavin Hunt, securing three heavyweight signings from South Africa’s “Big Two.” The Winelands club is bringing in clinical firepower and championship-winning experience to bolster their squad for the second half of the 2025/26 season.
The New Recruits: A Breakdown
Stellenbosch has balanced their business with a mix of permanent leadership and high-impact loan deals.
| Player | Previous Club | Deal Type | Key Strength |
| Tshegofatso Mabasa | Orlando Pirates | Loan | Clinical finishing; 2nd highest goalscorer in Pirates’ PSL history. |
| Mosa Lebusa | Mamelodi Sundowns | Permanent | Veteran leadership; winner of 7 consecutive league titles. |
| Kobamelo Kodisang | Mamelodi Sundowns | Loan | Explosive wing play; reunited with former mentor Gavin Hunt. |
Tshegofatso Mabasa: The Marquee Marksman
Despite a staggering record of 50 goals in 140 matches for Orlando Pirates, Mabasa found himself sidelined under Abdeslam Ouaddou. The coach cited a tactical “misfit,” as Mabasa’s poaching style didn’t align with Ouaddou’s high-pressing demands. For Stellenbosch, landing the second-highest scorer in Pirates’ PSL era (trailing only Benedict Vilakazi) is a massive coup.
Mosa Lebusa: The Serial Winner
After seven trophy-laden years at Chloorkop, the 33-year-old left-footed defender brings a “winning DNA” to the Western Cape. With over 200 appearances for Sundowns, Lebusa’s permanent move provides Hunt with a defensive general who understands the pressure of title races.
Kobamelo Kodisang: The Reunion
Kodisang returns to South Africa following a brief stint in Portugal with Avs FS. The move marks a sentimental and tactical reunion with Gavin Hunt, who originally gave the winger his breakthrough during their time at Bidvest Wits.
