Kaizer Chiefs‘ recruitment drive in 2025 appears to have been successful in setting them up for a strong run.
Whilst it’s still too early to judge, the short-term results in the Betway Premiership indicate that Amakhosi are indeed league contenders.
Read: Khanyisa Mayo turns down overseas offers to join Kaizer Chiefs
New Signings and their Impact
At the outset, Kaizer Chiefs, under new coach Nasreddine Nabi, have been active in the transfer market, making multiple new signings. This suggests a deliberate effort to strengthen the squad and address past weaknesses.
Several new players have already made a significant impact.
- Glody Lilepo and Thabo Cele arrived at Naturena in January earlier this year and were the undisputed standout additions during their 2024/25 campaign where in Lilepo would go on to finish as the clubs joint top scorer and Cele providing consistency and control in midfield.
- Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane have slotted into the new look Kaizer Chiefs defence – which is the only club yet to concede in the South African topflight.
- Siphesihle Ndlovu’s arrival has added experience and competition to the midfield.
- Flavio Silva has impressed on debut, joining an elite group of strikers who have scored on their PSL debut for Kaizer Chiefs.
Further recruits are still awaiting their debut, including Ethan Chislett, Nkanyiso Shinga, Lebohang Maboe, Asenele Velebayi, and Luke Baartman. Their arrival adds further intrigue to an already exciting squad evolution.
Improved Squad Depth and Competition
The new signings have created healthy competition within the squad, which players like Thabo Cele believe is crucial for the team’s success.
The expanded squad depth is seen as vital for a team competing in multiple tournaments such as the upcoming Carling Knockout as well as the CAF Confederations Cup.
Ahead of Chiefs’ return to the continental stage, the recruitment has addressed specific areas of concern, such as the full-back and forward positions, with the signings of Mako, Monyane, Silva, and Baartman.
Early Season Performance
Kaizer Chiefs have had a strong start to the 2025/26 PSL season, with four wins and a draw in their first five matches, putting them at the summit of the standings with 13 points.
Indeed, their most recent performance was a 0-0 draw against defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, which has underpinned speculation that they are now serious title contenders.
The team’s improved form and stability have been attributed to the new signings and the tactical changes introduced by coach Nabi.
When all is said and done, the real question is not just who they brought in, but how they’re being used. Nasreddine Nabi & Co appear to have a clear vision for the team which is aligned with the Kaizer Chiefs hierarchy and the new players are fitting into that system seamlessly.
Only time will tell if this leads to silverware, but for the first time in a while, it feels like the future at Naturena is bright.