Kaizer Chiefs have been spotted training with nine new faces as they gear up for their pre-season trip to the Netherlands.
The Soweto giants are clearly reshaping their squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with a mix of potential signings and promoted youth talent getting a chance to impress before the overseas tour kicks off.
New Faces at Naturena
Among the most notable names is Etiosa Ighodaro, a striker expected to leave Mamelodi Sundowns. Meanwhile, Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane, who recently parted ways with Orlando Pirates, are now training with Amakhosi.
Chiefs’ long-term transfer target Asanele Velebayi has also been spotted in the mix, adding weight to speculation that a deal could be near.
Youth Talent Steps Up
In addition to potential signings, five promising players from the Chiefs DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) side have officially joined the senior squad:
- Nkosana Mbuthu
- Thulani Mabaso
- Manqoba Ozoemena
- Naledi Hlongwane
- Kabelo Nkgwesa
According to inside sources, these youngsters have already secured senior contracts and will travel with the first team to the Netherlands. Their paperwork is reportedly being finalized, including visa applications for the tour.
This wave of promotions follows in the footsteps of other academy graduates like Mfundo Vilakazi, Mduduzi Shabalala, Samkelo Zwane, and Wandile Duba, signaling a renewed commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
Nabi’s Vision for Chiefs
Although these new players are part of the squad for now, it’s believed that head coach Nasreddine Nabi still has other targets in mind as he builds a team capable of competing for silverware.
With these exciting new faces and a European pre-season on the horizon, Kaizer Chiefs fans will be eager to see who makes the final squad—and who might become the next big star at Naturena.
