Kaizer Chiefs are facing growing pressure to improve their performances, with questions surrounding coach Fernando Da Cruz, reports linking the club with Manqoba Mngqithi, and an injury setback involving Lebohang Maboe dominating the latest news.
The Soweto giants are also preparing for their Telkom Knockout encounter against TS Galaxy, while teenage prospect Steven Mendes continues to attract attention following an impressive performance at the COSAFA Under-20 tournament.
Fernando Da Cruz Under Pressure at Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs have made an inconsistent start to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign, leaving them trailing their title rivals after eight league matches.
According to the report, Amakhosi are nine points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and eight points adrift of Orlando Pirates. Despite remaining unbeaten in the league, Chiefs have struggled to turn draws into victories and have managed just one win across their last seven matches in all competitions.
The results have raised questions about whether Da Cruz can deliver the progress expected at Naturena.
Chiefs supporters are eager to see the club challenge consistently for major honours after a difficult period. Their Nedbank Cup triumph in the previous season offered some encouragement, but expectations remain high given the club’s history, resources and large fanbase.
If performances do not improve, speculation about Da Cruz’s future could intensify, particularly if Chiefs fall short of qualifying for the CAF Champions League.
Is Manqoba Mngqithi a Potential Successor?
Reports suggest that Kaizer Chiefs are considering the possibility of appointing experienced South African coach Manqoba Mngqithi.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach has extensive experience in domestic football and is known for his tactical approach and ability to work within a structured coaching environment.
However, the reported interest should be treated as speculation rather than confirmation of an appointment. Chiefs have yet to be confirmed as having reached an agreement with Mngqithi, and Da Cruz remains the central figure in the club’s current campaign.
Whether the rumours develop into formal negotiations may depend on Chiefs’ results in the coming weeks.
For now, the prospect of Mngqithi taking charge has created another talking point among Amakhosi supporters, many of whom want to see the club return to competing for league titles.
Lebohang Maboe Remains Unavailable
Chiefs have also been dealt an injury setback, with playmaker Lebohang Maboe reportedly still unavailable.
Maboe’s absence could affect the team’s attacking options as the club looks to find greater consistency in the final third. His availability will be important to monitor as Chiefs navigate a demanding run of fixtures.
The club will be hoping to have key players available as the season progresses, particularly with pressure mounting to turn their league performances into victories.
Steven Mendes Emerges as a Prospect to Watch
While Chiefs contend with uncertainty around results and injuries, young forward Steven Mendes is offering supporters a reason for optimism.
The 18-year-old impressed at the recent COSAFA Under-20 tournament in Maputo, Mozambique, where he claimed the Golden Boot. Although he is naturally a midfielder, Mendes was deployed as a striker during the competition and made the most of the opportunity.
Some of his teammates have reportedly nicknamed him “Stevie G”, and his performances have strengthened interest in his potential future with the senior team.
Mendes could become an exciting option for Chiefs if his development continues at the same pace. However, a breakthrough into the first team will depend on his progress, opportunities and the coaching staff’s assessment of his readiness.
For a club looking to rebuild its competitiveness, developing promising young players could prove just as important as making changes to the coaching setup.
Chiefs Turn Attention to TS Galaxy
Kaizer Chiefs are scheduled to face TS Galaxy in a Telkom Knockout fixture at FNB Stadium on Tuesday, 27 October, with kick-off listed for 19:00 in the source report.
The match presents an opportunity for Da Cruz’s team to respond on the pitch and ease some of the pressure surrounding the club.
With the Mngqithi rumours continuing, Maboe still sidelined and Mendes pushing for greater recognition, Chiefs have several storylines to follow as they seek a more successful campaign.
Do you think Manqoba Mngqithi would be the right coach for Kaizer Chiefs, or should Fernando Da Cruz be given more time?
