The squad reconstruction under new Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz is gathering pace. The French-Portuguese tactician has informed midfielder Thabo Cele that he does not feature in his immediate tactical plans for the 2026/27 campaign.
In addition, Amakhosi are actively preparing to part ways with Congolese wide attacker Glody Lilepo, who is set to be sold for a significant fee before the domestic transfer window closes.
These departures virtually guarantee that Naturena’s recruitment team will prioritize signing a dynamic box-to-box midfielder and a replacement wide attacker in the coming weeks.
Langelihle Phili High on Wishlist to Replace Lilepo
Stellenbosch FC’s 21-year-old winger Langelihle Phili remains Kaizer Chiefs’ primary target to fill the void on the flanks:
- The Deal: Amakhosi are considering a player-plus-cash proposal to land the starlet, with forward Ashley du Preez potentially included as a makeweight.
- Phili’s Profile: Pacey and creative, Phili registered seven goals in 27 league outings for Stellenbosch last season.
Youth Spotlight: Kabelo ‘Festival’ Nkgwesa Ready to Step Up
While established senior names prepare for exits, 19-year-old left-back Kabelo Nkgwesa is pushing hard for senior opportunities following an eye-catching 20-minute cameo during Chiefs’ 1-1 European friendly draw against Scottish powerhouses Rangers.
“I got a sense of the difference in how they play compared to us, especially their physicality and endurance, which allowed them to finish stronger,” Nkgwesa reflected on the experience. “It’s good to learn about game management, when to pass, and the weight of the pass. Those seemingly small things make a big difference.”
