Khumalo says Johannesburg move worked against Chiefs loanee Manyana

Kaizer Chiefs DStv Diski Challenge coach Vela Khumalo says the club decided not to retain Xhosa Manyana after the midfielder struggled to adapt to Johannesburg.

Manyana joined Chiefs on loan from Cape Town City FC for the 2025/2026 season, arriving during the January transfer window on a short-term deal after being highly recommended.

The 20-year-old has since moved to Motsepe Foundation Championship side Hope FC. Khumalo said Manyana also found it difficult to secure regular playing time during his spell with the club.

“We decided not to keep him. Remember, he even struggled to get game time while he was with us,” Khumalo told KICK OFF.

“He played too few minutes. He is not a bad player, but I think the difference between the altitude in Cape Town and Johannesburg was too big for him. It did not work in his favour.

“We play a high-intensity game here.”

Manyana had previously moved to the United States before joining Chiefs, playing for Cincinnati in the MLS Next Pro Development League.