Kaizer Chiefs are preparing to welcome around five new signings ahead of their upcoming pre-season tour of the Netherlands — but questions are being raised about whether these additions align with new head coach Nasreddine Nabi’s plans.
Pre-Season Plans Underway
Chiefs are expected to travel next month for their European camp, where Nabi will meet several fresh arrivals — including two surprise names from arch-rivals Orlando Pirates: Thabiso Monyane and Paseka Mako.
Both defenders are reportedly joining the Glamour Boys next week, once their contracts with the Buccaneers officially run out. Their move — especially as a duo — has surprised many in local football, since it’s rare for two players to move from Pirates to Chiefs simultaneously.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
While some supporters are eager to see the team strengthened, others have voiced concern that the club may not be backing Nabi with players of his choosing. Some believe the technical team is handing the Tunisian tactician signings chosen by management and scouts, rather than the ones he specifically requested.
Were Monyane and Mako Part of Nabi’s Plans?
According to insiders who spoke to Soccer-Laduma, the Pirates pair may not have been Nabi’s preferred targets.
“It seems the coach wasn’t involved in pursuing those two,” said a source. “He had his eye on three right-backs: Lwandile Mabuya (Richards Bay), Lungelo Bhengu (Cape Town Spurs), and Mhleli Mabuza, who was on trial at the club in May.”
“For left-back, Nabi was more interested in Stellies’ Fawaaz Basadien and Mohamed Hussein from Simba SC in Tanzania. But the club’s recruitment team and scouts were reportedly more in favor of Monyane and Mako.”
With pre-season around the corner, all eyes will be on how Nabi integrates these players — and whether he’ll still push for his original targets.
