Given Msimango confirms Kaizer Chiefs exit after Langelihle Phili deal

Given Msimango has confirmed his departure from Kaizer Chiefs after three years at Naturena, following the club’s completed transfer for Stellenbosch FC forward Langelihle Phili.

The 29-year-old defender announced his exit in an emotional message on Instagram, expressing his gratitude to the club, its supporters and everyone connected with Amakhosi.

“Thank you, Kaizer Chiefs, for giving me memories that will last a lifetime. It was an honour to wear this badge and be part of this great club. I leave with gratitude in my heart and wish the club nothing but success,” Msimango wrote.

His farewell confirms the other side of an agreement that saw Kaizer Chiefs secure Phili from Stellenbosch FC. Soccer Laduma had reported during the transfer saga that Msimango would be included in the deal, alongside fellow Chiefs player Ashley Du Preez and a cash payment.

Kaizer Chiefs officially unveiled Phili on Monday, with Msimango’s departure now bringing clarity to the structure of the transfer.

Msimango joined Amakhosi from TS Galaxy in 2023 after establishing himself as one of the Betway Premiership’s dependable central defenders. Across his spell with Kaizer Chiefs, he played 53 matches in all competitions.

He was also part of the squad that ended the club’s decade-long wait for a major trophy by winning the Nedbank Cup in the 2024/25 season.

The defender featured regularly during his first campaign, but his involvement declined significantly last season. Msimango made only 13 appearances in all competitions as he fell behind Zitha Kwinika, Inacio Miguel and Aden McCarthy in the central-defensive pecking order.

With opportunities limited, a move away from Naturena became increasingly likely. Stellenbosch, now managed by Gavin Hunt, emerged as a suitable destination for a player whose experience could prove valuable as the club continues competing on multiple fronts.

Msimango is expected to offer leadership, aerial strength and composure in possession. The move also gives him the chance to rebuild the consistency that made him one of the league’s standout defenders before his transfer to Kaizer Chiefs.

His three-year spell with Amakhosi did not develop in the way many had expected, particularly after his reduced role during the most recent campaign. However, he leaves having contributed to one of the most important moments in the club’s recent history.

Kaizer Chiefs’ Nedbank Cup triumph in 2024/25 ended a prolonged trophy drought, and Msimango was part of the squad that delivered that success.

His departure therefore closes a period that brought both regular first-team football and growing competition for places, while his next challenge offers an opportunity to play a more prominent role under Hunt at Stellenbosch.