Motaung Jr gives Chiefs update: From transfers to demanding schedule

Kaizer Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr has provided an update on the club’s transfer business and set expectations for the 2025/26 season, which kicks off with a challenging away fixture against Stellenbosch FC on Sunday.

The club, coming off a disappointing ninth-place finish last season, is looking for a significant turnaround. Their poor league performance meant they missed out on the MTN8 tournament, which has already begun. Despite their struggles in the league under head coach Nasreddine Nabi, the team did manage to end a long trophy drought by winning the Nedbank Cup in May.

Motaung Jr. emphasised the need for a strong start to the season, noting that the fixture list will become congested quickly.

“It is crucial for us to start strongly, as the games will come thick and fast this season due to the AFCON break in December, and next year being a World Cup year. Additionally, we’ll be participating in the CAF Confederation Cup, meaning our schedule will be tight and busy,” he said, as Chiefs will also be playing in the Nedbank Cup, league and Carling Knockout Cup.

The team has already begun its transfer activities, bringing in several new players, including Siphesihle Ndlovu, Ethan Chislett, Paseka Mako, Nkanyiso Shinga, Thabiso Monyane, and Flavio Silva.

While happy with the new additions, Motaung Jr. made it clear that the club’s recruitment efforts are not over.

“We believe we have reinforced key areas within the squad, but we know that recruitment is an ongoing process,” he explained, suggesting that more players could still arrive at Naturena.

The Soweto giants will, however, be without coach Nabi for their opening match against Stellenbosch FC. The Tunisian tactician was forced to leave the country on Friday due to a personal emergency.