Given Msimango explains Stellenbosch FC switch after Kaizer Chiefs exit

Given Msimango says Stellenbosch FC’s ambitious outlook, strong management and desire to win trophies convinced him to join the club after leaving Kaizer Chiefs.

The 29-year-old defender moved to the Western Cape as part of a player-plus-cash deal involving winger Langelihle Phili, who joined Kaizer Chiefs. Striker Ashley Du Preez was also included in the agreement and returned to Stellenbosch FC.

Msimango’s departure from Naturena came as a surprise, having spent three seasons with the Soweto giants. During that time, he made 53 official appearances in all competitions and helped Kaizer Chiefs win the 2024/25 Nedbank Cup.

The centre-back said the environment at Stellenbosch FC gave him confidence that the club could challenge successfully in South African football.

“It feels great to be part of Stellenbosch FC,” Msimango told the club’s website.

“This is a great environment with good management, fantastic coaching staff, and a team that wants to compete, which are all ingredients you need for success.

“Stellenbosch is an ambitious team that wants to compete and win things. The team recently competed in the CAF Confederation Cup, and I want to compete with the Club at the highest level and try to reach those heights again.

Stellenbosch FC reached the CAF Confederation Cup during the previous campaign, and Msimango said he wanted to help the club return to that level while contributing to its domestic ambitions.

The Brakpan-born defender also set out his personal targets after completing the move. He said consistency would be important and that he wanted to make a positive contribution to the team wherever possible.

“I’m here to work hard for the Club, and I’ve already received messages of support from our fans, so I hope to be able to make them happy this season.”

Msimango arrives at Stellenbosch FC with leadership experience from his time as captain of TS Galaxy. His signing is part of a significant rebuilding process being overseen by head coach Gavin Hunt, as the club reshapes its squad ahead of the new season.

The defender is one of several prominent arrivals during an active transfer window for the Winelands club. He has joined fellow new signings Thabiso Lebitso and Sinoxolo Kwayiba as Stellenbosch FC look to strengthen their squad.

The agreement also completes an important exchange between the two clubs. While Msimango and Ashley Du Preez have moved to Stellenbosch FC, Langelihle Phili has headed in the opposite direction to Kaizer Chiefs, giving Amakhosi the winger they had targeted.

For Msimango, the move represents a fresh start after his spell with Kaizer Chiefs. He leaves Naturena having played a role in the club’s 2024/25 Nedbank Cup success, but now faces the task of helping Stellenbosch FC build on its continental experience and compete strongly in domestic football.

The club’s reshaped squad will operate under Hunt as Stellenbosch FC attempt to maintain their standing at the highest level and challenge for further silverware. Msimango said he was ready to work hard for the supporters as he begins the next stage of his career in the Cape Winelands.