Official: Chiefs Confirm Castro, Baccus & Akpeyi Departure

Kaizer Chiefs have confirmed the exit of striker Leonardo Castro, midfielder Kearyn Baccus and goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi upon the expiry of their contracts at Naturena.

Castro joined Chiefs in January 2018 surrounding much fanfare due to his stint with Mamelodi Sundowns where he formed part of the famous ‘CBD’ alongside Khama Billiat and Keagan Dolly.

However, the 2016 CAF Champions League winner failed to replicate that sort of form at Amakhosi with injuries also playing a part in his lack of success.

He leaves without a single trophy, whilst he failed to contribute a single goal or assists in the 2021/22 campaign with the Soweto giants in 13 games.

“Colombian goal poacher Leonardo Castro is saying goodbye to Amakhosi after his great service to the Club,” the club stated.

“Since signing in 2018, the 33-year-old featured 122 times for Amakhosi and scored 27 goals over four seasons.”

Next up on Chiefs’ exit list was goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi, who only made 12 appearances in 2021/22.

“Goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi will also leave the Club, with his contract set to expire on 30 June 2022,” Chiefs confirmed.

“The Nigerian international signed mid-season from Chippa United in 2018/19 and featured 69 times in 3.5 years for Amakhosi.”

Overall, Akpeyi made 69 appearances by the club but he had fallen behind Brandon Petersen and Bruce Bvuma in the pecking order in the second half of 2021/22.

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Kearyn Baccus was the next player to be released by Amakhosi.

“Chiefs is scheduled to part ways with Kearyn Baccus at the end of June,” the statement read.

“The SA-born midfielder grew up in Australia before returning home to play for Chiefs in June 2019. He appeared in 53 matches with two goals in his three seasons.”

The former A-League star has featured 53 times for Chiefs since his arrival in July 2019, scoring twice and registering four assists in his deep-lying playmaker role.

Remember, the new edition of the free iDiski Times newspaper is out and in Shoprite stores in Gauteng. We do have a double-page feature with interviews with Kaizer Motaung Jr, Bobby Motaung and Molefi Ntseki, who all speak on the club’s new plans after Arthur Zwane’s appointment. We also have the second part of our interview with Rulani Mokwena and more exclusives with Thembi Kgatlana and Khanyisa Mayo. Make sure to get your FREE COPY at your nearest Shoprite in Gauteng.