As the 2023/24 season winds down, Kaizer Chiefs face a few decisions with the contracts of eight players set to expire in June 2024. Here’s a look at each player and their future at Naturena.
WHO IS LIKELY TO STAY AT KAIZER CHIEFS
Edmilson Dove: The Mozambican defender has become a regular since joining Chiefs. A contract extension seems likely for the 29-year-old, barring any unforeseen circumstances. This season, he has played 17 games in all competitions. The Mambas vice-captain’s contract has a two-year renewal option, and the club looks set to renew.
George Matlou: The midfielder showed flashes of brilliance before an injury halted his progress this season. The 25-year-old has played 10 matches in all competitions this season. Due to an injury setback, the last time he was in action for Amakhosi was back in November 2023 against Cape Town Spurs. However, he looks set to get another bite of the cherry.
Njabulo Ngcobo: The former Moroka Swallows defender has struggled for game time, but with numbers thin in central defence, he could be handed an extension. He has 29 starts and 11 sub appearances in three seasons. The 29-year-old has made seven starts this season.
WHO’S LIKELY TO LEAVE KAIZER CHIEFS
Sifiso Hlanti: Indications are that Chiefs will be going on a search for a new left-back. With Dove and Happy Mashiane other options in that position, the 34-year-old, Hlanti, could be on his way out. Hlanti has made 21 appearances in all competitions and scored one goal.
Keagan Dolly: The 31-year-old could find himself in the same situation Khama Billiat found himself in last year at this time. The attacking midfielder has been in and out of the team because of injury setbacks. This season, Dolly has made eight appearances in all competitions and grabbed an assist. He last played in March 2024 against Golden Arrows. That could work against him.
Itumeleng Khune: The legendary keeper’s age and recent disciplinary issues might spell the end of his time at the club. The skipper has struggled for game time only making five appearances in all competitions this season. Khune has failed to keep a single clean sheet after conceding six goals. The 36-year-old is yet to make an appearance this year as he last played in November 2023 against Orlando Pirates.
Siyethemba Sithebe: Sithebe’s arrival was met with so much hope, but inconsistent performances might make Chiefs hesitant to offer a new deal. In 34 matches across all competitions in two seasons, the 31-year-old has started 27. But a few bright performances this season may have thrown him a lifeline. He recently made his first start in over eight months, having last played on 9 August 2023. His next appearance was on 30 March 2024 against Cape Town City FC. In between, he had to nurse injuries.
Jasond Gonzalez: Gonzalez has struggled to establish himself, and Amakhosi looks set to let go of him at the end of the season. The 24-year-old has made four starts and eight substitute appearances with no goals or assists. Unfortunately, a striker is judged on goals.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The next few weeks will be crucial for the Soweto giants’ management. Re-signing a key player like Dove is imperative while tough decisions loom regarding veterans like Khune and Hlanti. Balancing sentimentality with a vision for the future will be vital as they reshape their squad.
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