Bongani Sam leaves Kaizer Chiefs after injury-hit stint

Kaizer Chiefs have announced the mutual parting of ways with defender Bongani Sam after just one season at the club. The 27-year-old joined the Amakhosi in July 2024 from Orlando Pirates but never made a single appearance for the first team due to a serious pre-season injury.

Sam’s departure, announced by Chiefs on Thursday, comes just two days after the club also released midfielder Tebogo Potsane, who had been with Amakhosi since July 2023.

And Sam’s signing last year had raised eyebrows, given his limited playing time in the six months leading up to his arrival. His last club appearance was in December 2023, though he did feature for Bafana Bafana’s CHAN squad in March during a qualifier against Egypt. He will now look to revive his career elsewhere.

Chiefs Release Sam

After just one season, Kaizer Chiefs have amicably agreed to part ways with defender Bongani Sam.

The Gqeberha native joined the team from Orlando Pirates in July 2024.

Wishing Bongani all the best.#Amakhosi4Life pic.twitter.com/CUSutxyBEZ

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) July 31, 2025

The duo of Sam and Potsane join a growing list of players leaving Chiefs ahead of the new season. Edmilson Dove and Ranga Chivaviro have departed after their contracts expired, while Mduduzi Mdantsane and Sabelo Radebe had their contracts terminated. Additionally, Njabulo Blom has returned to his MLS parent club following the end of his loan spell.

In a statement, Chiefs wished Bongani Sam “all the best” in his future endeavours.

“Chiefs Release Sam. After just one season, Kaizer Chiefs have amicably agreed to part ways with defender Bongani Sam. The Gqeberha native joined the team from Orlando Pirates in July 2024. Wishing Bongani all the best,” said Amakhosi.