Kaizer Chiefs have begun their pre-season preparations in the Netherlands without their captain, Yusuf Maart, whose absence has sparked intense speculation over his future.
Despite recently penning a new contract with the club, Maart stayed behind in South Africa while the rest of the squad jetted off to Amsterdam on Thursday night. Chiefs touched down in Apeldoorn on Friday morning and will remain there until 19 July, using the two-week camp to fine-tune their squad ahead of the 2025/2026 season.
An overseas move for Maart appears imminent, with an unnamed Austrian club reportedly close to finalising his transfer. The 29-year-old midfielder, who hails from Atlantis in the Western Cape, is believed to be awaiting the issuance of his work visa before completing the move.
“Despite recently signing a new contract. An unnamed Austrian club is close to securing the signature of the Chiefs captain(Maart),” a source revealed. Chiefs and the European outfit have seemingly struck a deal, leaving the final step in Maart’s departure resting in immigration processing.
Key role in trophy success and CAF qualification
Maart proved pivotal in Kaizer Chiefs’ resurgence last season. He fired home the winner in a dramatic 2-1 Nedbank Cup final victory over rivals Orlando Pirates. Securing the club’s first silverware in over ten years and clinching a place in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Having initially joined Chiefs from Sekhukhune United in 2022, Maart’s performances quickly made him a fan favourite. He brought leadership, drive, and crucial goals to the heart of midfield.
Nabi shifts focus after midfield shake-up
Maart’s likely exit comes just as Kaizer Chiefs parted ways with Venezuelan midfielder Edson Castillo. Signalling a midfield overhaul under head coach Nasreddine Nabi.
Nabi has already begun reshaping the squad, with newly-signed Siphesihle Ndlovu from SuperSport United expected to fill the midfield void. Chiefs also confirmed the arrivals of Ethan Chislett, Flavio Silva, Thabiso Monyane, Paseka Mako, and Nkanyiso Shinga. As part of their aggressive recruitment drive.
Chiefs eye the Gambian star
Amid these midfield changes, Chiefs have been heavily linked with Gibril Sillah, a talented winger currently playing for Azam FC in Tanzania. The club’s transfer activity suggests that they are not done yet. As Nabi looks to build a squad capable of competing both domestically and in Africa.
Will Yusuf Maart leave Kaizer Chiefs for Austria?
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