Chiefs warned they may face new season without big signings, says Makua

Kaizer Chiefs risk starting the 2026-27 campaign without major reinforcements and will instead have to rely on existing squad members to raise their level, according to former midfielder Frank Makua.

The Soweto giants have made only three additions so far in the off-season, with Tuesday’s arrival of midfielder Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko from Tanzanian club Azam taking the tally of new faces at Naturena to three.

Bitegeko is just the second outfield signing, joining defender Thabo Moloisane and goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner as the only confirmed recruits ahead of new head coach Fernando da Cruz’s first season in charge.

At the same time, Chiefs have overseen a significant clear-out. Aden McCarthy has completed a transfer to Sabah, while Gaston Sirino, Tashreeq Matthews, George Matlou and Happy Mashiane have all departed. Further exits are possible, leaving the squad noticeably lighter in numbers and experience.

Key performer Glody Lilepo, who played an important role last season, did not travel with Amakhosi on their pre-season training camp in Spain and is reported to be close to finalising a move to Al Ahly Benghazi. Midfielder Thabo Cele, who was also omitted from the tour squad, is believed to be searching for a new club.

‘Everybody gets a fresh opportunity’

Speaking to KickOff.com, Makua said he believes Chiefs’ relatively quiet transfer window is a deliberate move to give current players a fresh chance to impress Da Cruz.

“So far I think they want to give the players of last season a chance, because most of the players did not get a chance last season, so that is why maybe,” Makua said.

He feels the new coach is using pre-season to assess what he already has before deciding where he needs to strengthen.

“The new coach is there as well, so he wants to see who he can use in that squad. So maybe later during the course of the season, when the window is open, he will try to beef up wherever he wants to beef up. But for now I think he’s going to give everyone a chance.”

Makua, affectionately known as ‘Disco’ during his playing days in Chiefs’ midfield, believes this approach places responsibility on several players to show they can carry the club through what could be a transitional year.

Call for Vilakazi and Maboe to lead

Makua highlighted specific individuals he feels must now shoulder greater responsibility if Chiefs are to remain competitive.

“Players like Mfundo Vilakazi will have to step up. I was so impressed with (Lebohang) Maboe and I think he deserved a chance to go to the World Cup but unfortunately…for me he deserves a chance to be in that national team squad,” Makua added.

His remarks underline a broader expectation that younger or previously fringe players will need to grow quickly into more influential roles, particularly if additional high-profile signings do not materialise before the season starts.

High-profile friendly on the horizon

Chiefs’ preparations continue on Sunday when they face Scottland FC in a high-profile Toyota Cup pre-season friendly at Royal Bafokeng Stadium.

The match will offer Da Cruz another opportunity to evaluate his options and for players such as Vilakazi and Maboe to make their case for regular selection, with the new campaign drawing closer and squad uncertainty still unresolved.