Fernando Da Cruz explains why Mayo and Ighodaro are waiting for regular Chiefs starts

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz says Khanyisa Mayo is still not physically ready to start regularly, while Etiosa Ighodaro must continue adapting to the club’s tactical approach.

The two forwards were signed to strengthen Chiefs’ attacking options, but neither has established himself as a consistent starter since arriving at Naturena during the current Betway Premiership season.

Mayo joined Chiefs after making his name at Cape Town City and was expected to bring both goals and experience to the club’s frontline. However, the South African international is still building towards the level of physical condition required to compete consistently at the highest level.

Da Cruz believes Mayo is progressing, but has no intention of rushing him into matches before he can cope with the demands of competitive football.

“Mayo is not far; he’s a quality player, but for this game he was not physically ready to play this type of game. He must walk into the game, and with Ighodaro, he needs to understand the game model, so we’ll work with him,” Da Cruz told reporters.

The coach’s explanation indicates that Mayo’s lack of starts is primarily linked to his fitness, rather than any concerns over his talent or potential contribution.

Ighodaro’s situation is different. The Nigerian forward was brought in to give Chiefs another attacking option, but he is still becoming familiar with the team’s style and the responsibilities expected of him within Da Cruz’s system.

For the striker to take on a more prominent role, the coach believes he must first develop a clearer understanding of the club’s playing philosophy. That process is taking place as Chiefs seek greater consistency and an improvement in their attacking output.

Da Cruz therefore appears willing to give both players time to settle instead of placing them into important matches before they are fully prepared. Mayo must reach the required physical level, while Ighodaro continues learning how Chiefs want to play.

The approach means Chiefs supporters may have to wait longer to see the two new forwards make a sustained impact in the starting line-up. Neither player has yet been able to secure regular game time, despite being recruited to add depth and competition in attack.

With a long season still ahead, Da Cruz will hope both forwards can make the necessary progress. If Mayo reaches full fitness and Ighodaro becomes more comfortable with the game model, Chiefs could gain the additional attacking depth the club expected from their arrivals.