AmaZulu FC has officially announced the first four new additions to their squad, signalling the start of a significant rebuild under coach Arthur Zwane.
This move comes as Usuthu aims to improve upon their commendable sixth-place finish in the previous season, a remarkable achievement given Zwane’s mid-season arrival.
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The former Kaizer Chiefs mentor took the reins when AmaZulu was in a precarious position, winless after their initial three league matches. Zwane successfully steered the ship, guiding the team to a strong finish and setting the stage for an ambitious new campaign.
Major Squad Restructuring Underway
The club has undertaken a substantial squad overhaul, releasing a total of 19 players. This group includes individuals returning from loan spells and those whose contracts were not renewed, resulting in a significant reduction in the wage bill.
Fourteen senior players were part of this exodus, including well-known names like Abbubaker Mobara, Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Wayde Jooste, Veli Mothwa, Augustine Mulenga, Rowan Human, and Ethan Brooks.
AmaZulu’s leadership extended their gratitude to the departing players, with club Chairman Sandile Zungu stating, “On the players that we released, I want to say thank you to them. We are eternally grateful for their contribution. Unfortunately, it is the nature of the game that the dancers have to bow off the dance floor.”
New Faces and Promising Talent Emerge
Simultaneously with the player releases, AmaZulu unveiled their initial four new signings:
Keagan Allan (from Richards Bay)
Ryan Moon (from Golden Arrows)
Darren Johnson (from Chippa United)
Thando Ngwenya (from FC Platinum, Zimbabwe)
In addition to these external acquisitions, the club is also bolstering its ranks from within, promoting four promising talents from their reserve team: Asanda Mzobe, Onke Ncama, Minenhle Ngcobo, and Thandanani “Obama” Mhlongo.
Further strengthening the squad’s depth, Siphamandla Zikhali, Siyanda Hlangabeza, and Olwethu Mzimela have returned from their respective loan spells. Young prospects Thato Mdluli, Rocco Roger, and Enrick Erasmus have also been invited to train with the first team, showcasing the club’s commitment to nurturing future talent.
AmaZulu is also expected to officially unveil Thapelo Matlhoko, a standout from the second-tier last season who joins from Kruger United. Meanwhile, the transfer of Liam Bern from Cape Town Spurs is currently being contested at the Premier Soccer League DRC.
Coaching Staff Strengthened
The technical team has also seen a key addition with Postnet Omony joining as the new Goalkeeper Coach. Omony steps in after Wendell Robinson’s departure to MC Alger, where he joined Rulani Mokwena.
Chairman Zungu expressed high hopes for the new recruits, emphasizing the club’s full support: “We have very high hopes in these new guys. We absolutely have no doubt you will rise to the challenge, listen to the coaches’ instructions, please compete, and we will support you.”