Kaizer Chiefs will only make January signings that add value, says Fernando Da Cruz

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz says the club will not recruit simply to increase its squad numbers when the January transfer window opens.

The comments came after Chiefs confirmed the signing of Elias Mokwana, a move that has raised expectations among supporters as the Soweto club seek to build a squad capable of competing for major honours.

Mokwana, a 27-year-old winger, joined the Glamour Boys as a free agent after leaving Sekhukhune United in August 2024. The Bafana Bafana international has since spent time with Tunisian club Esperance de Tunis and Saudi Pro League side Al-Hazem, where he played on loan.

With the January window just over a month away, Da Cruz was asked whether Mokwana’s arrival would be followed by further additions.

Speaking to journalists at the PSL headquarters on Thursday during the Carling Knockout pre-match press conference, the Frenchman said Chiefs would assess their options carefully rather than make signings for the sake of it.

“We have time, because we still have two months of competitions before January. As a club, we don’t want to recruit just to recruit, we’re looking for players to add value into the squad, it’s very important,” Da Cruz said.

The former AS FAR coach also identified a lack of experience in some areas of his team. He believes experienced recruits could support the club’s younger players and help them progress more quickly.

“We know that in some positions we have a lack of experience and we need experienced players to help our talented players, to grow, to develop, being with them everyday in training and in the games,” Da Cruz added.

Mokwana’s signing has been welcomed by Chiefs supporters, who have been urging the club to bring in more quality players. His arrival is viewed as an important step in strengthening the squad, although Da Cruz’s comments indicate that any further recruitment will depend on whether suitable players can provide something extra.

Chiefs must first focus on their next competitive fixture as they attempt to recover from their recent Soweto derby disappointment.

They face Siwelele in the Carling Knockout quarter-finals on Sunday evening at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.