Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Tsepo Masilela has cast doubt on Amakhosi’s decision to sign free-agent goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner, suggesting the move exposes a lack of faith in the club’s existing backup options and will trigger a high-profile departure at Naturena.
The Soweto giants recently strengthened their squad ahead of the upcoming campaign by snatching up the 28-year-old shot-stopper following his exit from Sekhukhune United. However, Masilela remains unconvinced by the transfer dynamics, questioning why a Bafana Bafana-caliber keeper was allowed to leave for free if he was deemed indispensable by his former employers.
“Are They Trusted?” — Masilela Sounds the Alarm
With Brandon Petersen firmly established as Amakhosi’s number one since 2025, Masilela argues that adding Leaner to a roster that already boasts Bruce Bvuma and Fiacre Ntwari is a telling sign from management.
Speaking to FARPost, the Amakhosi legend asked:
“If you look at last season, is Bruce the number two at Kaizer Chiefs? I don’t think so. Is Ntwari the number two at Kaizer Chiefs? Meaning, are those guys the trusted number two? You can be a number two, yes, but are you trusted? If something goes wrong, the first choice or Brandon Petersen gets a long-term injury, can we count on you?”
Given Petersen’s history of picking up minor, recurring injuries that sideline him for a handful of games at a time, Masilela believes new French coach Fernando Da Cruz wanted an absolute guarantee on the bench.
A Naturena Clearance on the Horizon
With four senior, experienced goalkeepers now fighting for limited spots, the math simply doesn’t add up for the squad’s composition. Masilela predicts that the hierarchy will be forced to trim the wage bill and the locker room very soon.
“With this signing, I’m looking at that one has to be released. It’s either Bruce or Ntwari. I think one is going to be released,” Masilela added. “Who is leaving Kaizer Chiefs? I’m not sure, but I have this strong feeling that one has to leave.”
As pre-season preparations ramp up for domestic action and the CAF Confederation Cup, all eyes will be on Naturena to see whether it is Bvuma or Ntwari who makes way for the newly arrived Leaner.
