Katsande’s bold claim: “New Chiefs star deserves my No. 31 shirt”

Kaizer Chiefs legend Willard Katsande has expressed enthusiasm for one of the club’s new recruits, suggesting the player is worthy of inheriting his beloved jersey number 31.

The Soweto giants have been active in the transfer market ahead of the 2025/26 season, confirming the arrivals of Ethan Chislett, Flavio Silva, former Orlando Pirates duo Thabiso Monyane and Paseka Mako, and midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu from the now-defunct SuperSport United.

This influx of talent comes as Amakhosi have also seen several players depart, including Mduduzi Mdantsane, Ranga Chivaviro, Edmilson Dove, Njabulo Blom, and Sabelo Radebe.

Expectations are already soaring among the club’s loyal fanbase, who hope these new additions will provide the firepower needed to compete strongly in domestic competitions and make a significant impact in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Among the five new signings, Willard Katsande, known for his tenacious midfield play, has singled out Siphesihle Ndlovu as the most exciting acquisition, praising his arrival at Naturena.

In an interview with FARPost, Katsande emphasised Ndlovu’s experience and suitability for the demands of playing for a club of Chiefs’ stature.

“He’s my boy. Because you can see the way he poses. Trust me, I’ve been a fan of him for some time. I could see the way he plays. He’s a very energetic boy. If we have to play, we can play; if we have to be stuck in tackles, we can stick in tackles. So I’ve seen him in a couple of games,” said Katsande.

He recalled a previous encounter with Ndlovu: “Even sometimes, when I saw him in one of the matches, when he played at FNB Stadium, I told him, ‘boy, you deserve to be here. Not the other way around’. So I’m happy that the club brought him on board because he’s going to bring a lot of quality and value to the team.”

Katsande further highlighted Ndlovu’s championship pedigree: “Even experience-wise, you know, he’s somebody who has won the trophies and somebody who knows how to play for a big team. So he’s going to be good, and he’s going to rub it into the young ones because he does have a never-die spirit. And you could see the way he plays.”

“He’s just an unbelievable boy. I can’t wait for him to play. I wish he can get number 31. For him to remember me. But I’m happy for him. He’s a very good boy.”