Kaizer Chiefs plan gradual introduction for new signing Elias Mokwana

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz says Elias Mokwana will be eased into the squad, with the forthcoming FIFA international break expected to provide valuable time for the winger to adapt and regain match readiness.

The 27-year-old recently joined the club he supported as a boy, completing his move to Naturena after a difficult period involving spells in North Africa and the Middle East. He will wear the number 14 shirt at Chiefs.

Mokwana’s arrival at Amakhosi could have happened several seasons earlier, but the player instead chose to move to Tunisian giants Esperance Sportive de Tunis.

He spent one season with the club, known as Taraji, making 38 appearances, scoring seven goals and recording four assists. He subsequently joined Saudi Pro League side Al Hazem on a season-long loan.

His stay in Tunisia ended after complications over the club’s foreign-player registration quota. Mokwana and Esperance Sportive de Tunis then agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent, allowing him to return to South Africa and begin a new chapter with Chiefs.

Despite his experience and quality, Da Cruz does not want to rush the former Sekhukhune United winger into action. Mokwana did not have a proper pre-season and must first become familiar with his new team and the coach’s expectations.

“Elias Mokwana is a very good player, an experienced player with international experience, he has a lot of quality,” Da Cruz said at Thursday’s Carling Knockout Cup press conference.

“With no pre-season? Will be tough but in the upcoming FIFA break it will be the time to integrate him into the team, step by step.”

The break is therefore likely to be significant for Mokwana as he works towards full match fitness and adjusts to Da Cruz’s tactical demands. It will also give him an opportunity to compete for a place in the Chiefs starting line-up without being pushed into immediate involvement.

Chiefs are currently focused on their Carling Knockout Cup quarter-final against Siwelele, which will be played on Sunday at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00.

Mokwana is unlikely to be fast-tracked into that contest, with Da Cruz instead favouring a gradual integration process. The upcoming international window should allow the new signing to train more extensively with his team-mates before challenging for regular selection.