Chiefs handed injury boost as Mayo and Phili close in on return

Kaizer Chiefs could soon welcome back two important attacking options as Khanyisa Mayo and Langelihle Phili continue their respective recoveries from injury.

The potential return of the pair would come at a crucial stage of the 2026/27 PSL campaign, with head coach Fernando Da Cruz looking to add more depth and firepower to his squad.

Mayo steps up recovery

Mayo has recently returned to first-team training at Naturena after undergoing surgery for a hernia problem.

The 28-year-old missed the opening weeks of the new campaign but is now showing positive signs of recovery, raising the possibility of a return to the matchday squad this month.

Mayo joined Chiefs from CR Belouizdad on loan before the club made his move permanent in July. However, he is yet to make an appearance for Amakhosi this season.

His return would give Da Cruz another option in attack as Chiefs look to improve their results.

Phili nearing comeback

Phili is also closing in on a return after suffering an injury during Chiefs’ 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns on 15 August.

The winger had made his mark in the encounter by scoring before being forced off with an injury.

Da Cruz subsequently revealed that Phili was expected to spend around eight weeks on the sidelines while completing his rehabilitation.

The FIFA international break has provided the 21-year-old with additional time to recover without missing competitive fixtures, and a return around mid-to-late October could be possible if he continues to progress well.

Chiefs could receive timely boost

With both Mayo and Phili edging closer to full fitness, Chiefs could soon have greater attacking options at their disposal.

Their returns would provide Da Cruz with increased competition for places and could offer Amakhosi another attacking spark as they attempt to build momentum in the PSL.

For a Chiefs side seeking greater consistency, having two injured players back in contention could prove to be a timely boost.