Former Orlando Pirates winger Lebohang “Cheeseboy” Mokoena has shared his thoughts on why Thabo Cele was left out of Kaizer Chiefs’ squad for their pre-season tour of Spain.
The 28-year-old midfielder was one of the most notable absentees when Amakhosi announced their travelling squad, fuelling speculation over his future at Naturena.
According to reports, Cele could be on his way out of the club after just 18 months. The midfielder struggled for regular game time last season, with Lebohang Maboe often preferred in central midfield.
Cele returned to South Africa in January 2025 after several years in Europe, hoping to revive his career and force his way into the Bafana Bafana squad but his stint at Chiefs has not gone as planned.
Speaking on SoccerBeat, Mokoena suggested that the club’s management may already have made a decision on the midfielder’s future.
“What a player, man. His technical ability on its own is impressive. He is a Chiefs kind of player. Sometimes it’s very difficult to get to a club when the club is trying to find its identity. You’re supposed to walk in and find the house clean, and sometimes that takes time,” Mokoena said.
Cele could be on his way out of Kaizer Chiefs
Mokoena believes the expectations placed on Cele were unrealistic, with the midfielder expected to transform the team almost immediately.
“A lot was expected from him to carry the team. A team like Chiefs does not need an individual who will carry the team. Expectations were also high for George Matlou and he left. He didn’t have the impact many expected at Chiefs.”
The former Buccaneers winger added that playing for a club of Chiefs’ stature leaves little room for error, with competition for places always intense.
“These things happen at big teams. If you don’t take your opportunity, there’s always another player the club is looking at. They sign you today, and tomorrow the scouts are already searching for your replacement before you’ve even touched the ball.”
With Cele absent from the pre-season tour, uncertainty continues to surround his future, and it remains to be seen whether he will still be a Kaizer Chiefs player when the new Betway Premiership season gets underway.