"Are they good enough?" Farouk Khan on Chiefs' latest reported signings

Amakhosi. Photo credit: Kaizer Chiefs

Former Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Farouk Khan has expressed concerns about the club's reported new signings, Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane, for the upcoming 2025/26 season.

The two wing-backs reportedly joined Chiefs on a free transfer after their contracts with rivals Orlando Pirates expired on June 30, 2025.

Mako and Monyane were long-serving members of the Pirates squad. Mako spent seven seasons with the Buccaneers, joining from Chippa United in 2018.

During his time, the left-back played in 173 games across all competitions, contributing two goals and eight assists. However, in his final season, Mako's playing time was limited due to injuries, with Deon Hotto often favoured at left-back under former coach Jose Riveiro. Monyane, who was promoted from the Pirates junior ranks in 2019, spent five seasons with the club.

Khan, who coached Chiefs in the early 2000s and helped develop players like Jabu Mahlangu and Junior Khanye, questioned the impact Mako and Monyane would have on the Glamour Boys' squad.

"If they were the calibre that could make an impact, why did Pirates let them go?" Khan asked in an interview with FARPost. He emphasised the importance of investing in young players who can grow with the team, suggesting that trying to save on transfer fees can negatively impact a club in the long run.

While acknowledging the talent of both players, Khan expressed doubt about their ability to elevate the current Kaizer Chiefs squad.

"Take nothing away from the two players, they are very good players, but can they improve the current Kaizer Chiefs squad?" he probed. "I think they’re good players, but can they take the club to the next level? I’ll have to wait and see. At Chiefs, you need players who can take the level of your squad higher."