Stellenbosch FC have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2026/27 season after completing the signing of former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder George Matlou on a free transfer.
The Cape Winelands outfit confirmed the deal on Tuesday, announcing that the 27-year-old has signed a long-term contract, although the club did not disclose the exact length of the agreement.
Matlou arrives at Stellenbosch after four seasons with Kaizer Chiefs, where he made 46 appearances and was part of the squad that ended the club’s decade-long trophy drought by lifting the 2025 Nedbank Cup.
‘He can add real value’
Stellenbosch CEO Rob Benadie believes the midfielder’s experience and quality will strengthen the squad as the club prepares for another demanding campaign.
“George is a player we believe can add real value to our squad through his experience, technical ability and understanding of the game,” said Benadie.
“His pedigree speaks for itself, and we are naturally pleased that he has chosen to continue his career with Stellenbosch FC. We believe he can play an important role in helping us achieve our objectives this season.”
Well-travelled career
Matlou developed through the Bidvest Wits academy before gaining senior experience during loan spells with Cape Town All Stars and Cape Umoya United.
He then spent two years in Portugal with lower-league club Sanjoanense before returning to South Africa to join Moroka Swallows for the 2021/22 season.
His performances earned him a move to Kaizer Chiefs ahead of the following campaign, where he established himself as a useful squad player before departing at the end of last season.
Stellies add Mashego and Garrow
Matlou is the latest addition to a busy transfer window for Stellenbosch.
The club also confirmed the arrival of Bafana Bafana left-back Terrence Mashego, who joins on a season-long loan from Mamelodi Sundowns.
Mashego arrives after helping Durban City lift the 2026 Nedbank Cup during a successful loan spell, having previously won the competition with TS Galaxy in 2019.
Mashego, who has won 14 caps for Bafana Bafana, started his professional career in the Eastern Cape with Mthatha Bucks before joining TS Galaxy in 2018.
Meanwhile, following the retirement of Lee Langeveldt and the departure of Oscarine Masuluke, Stellenbosch FC has strengthened its goalkeeping department with the acquisition of 21-year-old Cape Town-born Nathan Garrow from New Zealand side Auckland City on a permanent transfer.
With three more additions confirmed, coach Gavin Hunt continues to bolster his squad as it prepares to compete on both the domestic and continental fronts during the upcoming season.
Stellenbosch FC finished ninth in last season’s Betway Premiership, narrowly missing out on a place in this season’s MTN8.
Other Stellenbosch FC transfer signings and exits:
In: Sinoxolo Kwayiba (Chippa United), Thabiso Lebitso (Orlando Pirates), Tlakusani Mthethwa (Richards Bay)
Out: Ashley Cupido, Ibrahim Jabaar, Omega Mdaka, Thabo Moloisane, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Oscarine Masuluke, Lee Langeveldt (retired), Dejean Ah Shene, Athenkosi Mcaba, Kazie Enyinnaya, Wayde Jooste, Olisa Ndah, Khomotjo Lekoloane, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Kobamelo Kodisang, Asekho Tiwani, Kyle Jurgens