Da Cruz rules out Cele role at Kaizer Chiefs as Lilepo weighs ‘rare opportunity’ move

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz has confirmed that Thabo Cele does not feature in his plans, while revealing that Glody Lilepo is in talks over what he described as a “rare opportunity” away from Naturena.

The French coach, who will take charge of Chiefs in front of the club’s supporters for the first time on Sunday against Zimbabwean champions Scottland FC in the 2026 Toyota Cup, addressed the futures of both players in his first media briefing since being officially unveiled.

Cele and Lilepo were notable omissions from the squad that travelled to Spain for pre-season, and Da Cruz has now made clear that the pair are on a different path to the rest of his group.

“For Lilepo, he has a rare opportunity, and the management is open to discussions, so they are in discussions. With Thabo Cele, there a lot of players in his position and so we prefer other profiles. So, at the moment he is not in the plans,” Da Cruz told reporters.

Lilepo attracting North African interest

Lilepo has been strongly linked with a move to clubs in North Africa, and it is understood the player is open to leaving Kaizer Chiefs as he explores the next step in his career.

The winger’s situation is now the subject of ongoing negotiations, with Da Cruz indicating that Chiefs are prepared to consider offers should all parties reach agreement. The coach did not specify the clubs involved, but interest from the region has been persistent in recent weeks.

While Lilepo was left out of the Spain tour, his status at Naturena is being shaped by those discussions, with the club hierarchy willing to listen to proposals that match their valuation and the player’s ambitions.

Cele free to find new club

Midfielder Cele, meanwhile, has effectively been told he is surplus to requirements under the new technical team, with Da Cruz highlighting the depth in his position as the key factor.

Cele’s representatives have been given the go-ahead to seek a move, and Chiefs are open to him joining another side ahead of the new campaign if a suitable offer comes in and all sides can reach consensus on the terms.

Should a transfer materialise, Cele could secure a new club before the start of the season. However, if no agreement is reached, he will not rejoin the main squad but will continue to work separately.

Chiefs have allowed him continued access to the Naturena facilities so that he can maintain his fitness while his future is resolved. Despite being out of Da Cruz’s plans, Cele still has two and a half years remaining on his contract with Amakhosi, leaving the club and player to navigate a solution that respects that long-term deal.

Da Cruz’s comments underline a period of transition at Kaizer Chiefs as the new coach begins to reshape his squad ahead of his first competitive campaign, with Sunday’s Toyota Cup fixture offering supporters an early glimpse of his preferred profiles and selection approach.