Fiacre Ntwari: Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper sent on season-long loan to Kruger United

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari has been loaned to newly promoted Betway Premiership side Kruger United for the 2026/27 season, as the Rwandan international seeks regular game time after a turbulent spell at Naturena.

The 26-year-old, who has struggled for minutes since a high-profile substitution row in the Carling Knockout Cup, joins the Mpumalanga-based club on a season-long deal.

Kruger United, nicknamed “The Village Boys”, had already unveiled Ntwari as one of 15 new signings as they prepare for their debut campaign in South Africa’s top flight.

Chiefs confirmed the move on Tuesday, describing it as an opportunity for the player to revitalise his career while bolstering a team fresh into the elite division.

“Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari will join Mpumalanga-based Kruger United on a season-long loan in the upcoming 2026/27 campaign.

“The move gives the Rwandan international a chance to gain valuable game time while contributing to the ambitions of the newly promoted outfit in the Betway Premiership.”

Fall from favour after Carling Knockout Cup incident

Ntwari’s standing at Chiefs has been under scrutiny since an incident in the Carling Knockout Cup in Cape Town, when he refused to be substituted in a match against Stellenbosch FC.

Since that episode, his involvement has been limited. He made only one appearance for Amakhosi in the most recent campaign, taking his total to just eight matches in all competitions since arriving from TS Galaxy in July 2024.

The lack of opportunities has prompted the club and player to agree that a temporary move away was the best solution, with Kruger United offering him the prospect of regular first-team football.

Fifth official departure from Chiefs

The move sees Ntwari become the fifth confirmed exit from the Soweto giants’ squad in the current window.

He follows Gaston Sirino, Tashreeq Morris, Happy Mashiane and George Matlou out of the club, as Chiefs continue a broader restructuring of their playing staff ahead of the new season.

Ntwari will now be tasked with bringing top-flight experience and international pedigree to Kruger United’s dressing room, as the Mpumalanga side looks to establish itself in the Betway Premiership after promotion.

Fresh start at ambitious newcomers

Kruger United, one of the league’s newest entrants, have embarked on an aggressive recruitment drive, with 15 arrivals already announced as they aim to avoid an immediate return to the lower division.

The addition of an international goalkeeper is seen as a key part of their plans, with Ntwari expected to contend for the number one spot and add stability at the back.

For Chiefs, the loan provides an opportunity to monitor the Rwandan’s development in a competitive environment, while freeing up space in a crowded goalkeeping department.

For Ntwari, it represents a vital chance to rebuild momentum in his club career and stake a stronger claim for continued involvement with the Rwanda national team, after a stop-start period at one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.