Mamelodi Sundowns sign Thabo Cele after Kaizer Chiefs exit

Mamelodi Sundowns have unveiled Thabo Cele as their latest signing after the midfielder ended his time with Kaizer Chiefs by mutual consent.

The move was confirmed shortly after Cele’s departure from Amakhosi, bringing an end to speculation over his next club. The 29-year-old now joins the reigning African champions as they continue their pursuit of domestic and continental success.

Cele and Chiefs agreed to terminate his contract on September 7. The club said the decision would allow the midfielder to seek a new opportunity, and Sundowns quickly emerged as a leading contender for his signature.

His arrival strengthens Miguel Cardoso’s midfield options and takes Cele to one of the most dominant clubs in South African football. He will begin his new chapter at Chloorkop with Sundowns, where expectations will be considerably higher as the club competes on multiple fronts.

Cele’s spell at Kaizer Chiefs

Cele joined Kaizer Chiefs in January 2025 and made 36 appearances in domestic and CAF competitions during an 18-month spell at Naturena.

He played a role in helping Amakhosi end a decade-long wait for silverware when they won the Nedbank Cup in 2025.

However, Cele was later left out of the club’s plans under new head coach Fernando Da Cruz. The situation ultimately led to both parties agreeing to bring his contract to an end.

The move to Sundowns means Cele will now represent one of Chiefs’ biggest rivals after a relatively short stay with the Johannesburg club. His transfer adds an extra dimension to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season, with the midfielder set to face his former side as part of Sundowns’ squad.