Kaizer Chiefs are heading into a crucial decision period, with seven players set to see their contracts expire on 30 June, but recent team selections are already starting to hint at what could happen next.
The situation became even more interesting after the 2-0 win over TS Galaxy.
WHO IS STAYING OR GOING?
Bruce Bvuma has now dropped to the bench following Brandon Petersen’s return from an appendix operation, while Pule Mmodi has once again lost his place in the starting line-up.
At the same time, Dillan Solomons , who had impressed in his last two matches , was left out of the squad completely, raising questions about whether contract talks could be playing a role behind the scenes.
With Bvuma, Zitha Kwinika, Solomons, Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Mmodi, Gaston Sirino and Khanyisa Mayo all nearing the end of their deals, the big question is simple: who stays and who moves on?
KAIZER CHIEFS WAIT BEFORE FINAL CALL
According to reports, Amakhosi are in no rush to make final decisions, with the club waiting for more clarity around the technical team.
“Yeah, indeed, big news coming out of Naturena with regards to players soon to be out of contract,” Mazola Molefe had said on SABC Sport.
“That would be the 30th of June. The reason being that the coach’s situation is unclear at the moment. We’ve heard the Sporting Director, Kaizer Motaung Jr, saying he wants a CAF Champions League spot.
“At the moment, it seems the best that Kaizer Chiefs can do is the CAF Confederation Cup, finishing in third place.”
Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana captain Hlompho Kekana believes the club is taking the right approach. “I must say, this is a list of players that really deserve to get a contract from Kaizer Chiefs,” Kekana said.
“But they are waiting for the outcome before making decisions. A new coach is coming, and he must decide based on what he has seen. I think that’s good thinking.”
Also read: Kaizer Chiefs transfer watch: PSL midfielder spotted at FNB
WHAT EACH PLAYER HAS OFFERED SO FAR
Bvuma has made five appearances this season, conceding five goals and keeping two clean sheets, but now finds himself back on the bench after Petersen’s return.
Kwinika was a regular before injury, making 25 appearances and scoring once in the CAF Confederation Cup. However, he is now ruled out for the rest of the season.
Solomons has made 18 appearances in rotation at right-back and recently showed good form, but his latest omission raises fresh questions about his future.
Mthethwa featured 19 times before his long-term injury and has now returned, making a substitute appearance against TS Galaxy.
Also read: Reports: Another top coach linked with Kaizer Chiefs
Mmodi has contributed one goal and one assist in 25 matches but has once again lost his starting place.
Sirino has managed one goal and two assists in 23 games this season, though he was not included in the matchday squad against TS Galaxy.
Mayo, on loan from CR Belouizdad, has scored once in 12 appearances, with injuries limiting his impact, but he has recently returned to action from the bench.
WHO SHOULD LEAVE OR STAY AT KAIZER CHIEFS?
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