Kaizer Chiefs have been busy reshaping their squad ahead of the 2026/27 season, with no fewer than 10 players leaving Naturena during the current transfer window.
The latest departure is Thabo Cele, whose contract was mutually terminated after the midfielder fell outside new head coach Fernando Da Cruz’s plans.
Cele’s exit follows a series of departures involving experienced players, young prospects, permanent transfers, contract expiries and a loan move.
With Chiefs targeting a stronger challenge for domestic honours and the CAF Confederations Cup, the turnover represents a significant change to the squad.
1. Thabo Cele
Cele is the latest player to leave Amakhosi.
The midfielder joined Chiefs in January 2025 from Russian club Fakel Voronezh and initially became an important part of the midfield.
His influence subsequently declined, however, and he was left out of Da Cruz’s plans.
Chiefs confirmed that the two parties agreed to terminate his contract, allowing Cele to pursue a new opportunity.
2. Given Msimango
Defender Given Msimango also moved on during the window, joining Stellenbosch FC.
His departure leaves Chiefs with another defensive position to address as Da Cruz continues rebuilding his squad.
3. Ashley Du Preez
Striker Ashley Du Preez was another player to make the move to Stellenbosch.
The forward’s exit represents the loss of an attacking option as Chiefs look to build a more competitive squad for the new campaign.
4. Aden McCarthy
Young defender Aden McCarthy secured a move abroad after Chiefs agreed to sell him to Azerbaijani club Turan Tovuz.
The transfer gives the youngster an opportunity to continue his development in Europe while Chiefs collect a fee from the deal.
5. Glody Lilepo
Glody Lilepo’s Chiefs spell also came to an end, with the attacker moving to Libya.
The departure adds another name to the growing list of attacking players no longer at Naturena.
6. Gastón Sirino
Experienced attacker Gastón Sirino left Chiefs after two seasons at the club.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns player brought experience and creativity to the Amakhosi attack, but the club ultimately moved in a different direction.
7. Tashreeq Morris
Striker Tashreeq Morris was another player who did not remain part of the Chiefs rebuild.
The club opted against extending his stay after he struggled to establish himself as a consistent goalscoring threat.
8. George Matlou
Midfielder George Matlou departed after his contract with the club expired.
His exit forms part of Chiefs’ wider effort to create space for new additions and reshape the squad.
9. Happy Mashiane
Long-serving defender Happy Mashiane also left Naturena after his contract expired.
The academy graduate had spent several years with the club but now begins a new chapter away from Amakhosi.
10. Fiacre Ntwari
Goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari has been sent out on loan following the arrival of Renaldo Leaner.
The move provides Ntwari with an opportunity for regular football while Chiefs strengthen their goalkeeping options.
Chiefs have made six additions
The departures have coincided with significant recruitment.
Chiefs have brought in six new players as they prepare for a demanding 2026/27 campaign.
The club will compete for domestic success while also returning to continental football in the CAF Confederations Cup.
That means Da Cruz will need to integrate his new arrivals quickly while ensuring that the large number of departures does not disrupt the team’s momentum.
A major rebuild at Naturena
The list of departures shows just how dramatically Chiefs have changed their squad.
From established names such as Sirino and Du Preez to younger players like McCarthy, the club has made difficult decisions across several areas of the team.
Now the pressure is on Da Cruz and the new-look squad to justify the overhaul on the pitch.
Which of these 10 players should Kaizer Chiefs have kept?
