Chiefs have missed Rushwin Dortley for 18 months. With the defender finally back in the squad, his younger brother Emile in the academy is drawing comparisons for his playing style
Kaizer Chiefs have felt the absence of Rushwin Dortley since he suffered a serious knee injury in March 2025. Now that the left-footed centre-back is back in the fold, there is a fresh talking point at Naturena: a younger version of him may already be on the way up.
Dortley is back
The 24-year-old was named among the substitutes for Chiefs’ last Betway Premiership game against Golden Arrows, though he did not get onto the pitch. He has not played a competitive match for the club since the injury. His return is a boost for supporters and the coaching staff, who would love to use his left foot and ball-playing ability in a back three.
Meet Emile
Dortley’s younger brother, Emile, is part of the academy setup at Naturena, and the similarities in their style of play have not gone unnoticed. Could the two brothers one day line up together in the first team, perhaps alongside exciting attacking prospect Steven Mendes?
Mixed news on the injury front
Several Chiefs players remain sidelined, but there is some positive news. Long-term absentee Langelihle Phili could be back in mid-October.
The league picture
Chiefs have drawn four of their seven league games and have dropped points in four of their last five. Their next league match is against Stellenbosch on Saturday, 17 October at 15:30.
Can Dortley become a key player again once he regains full match sharpness? Tell us in the comments.
