Five Kaizer Chiefs players fighting to secure starting roles

The departure of coach Nasreddine Nabi has left Kaizer Chiefs in transition, with no settled starting XI yet established. 

That uncertainty has opened a race for places across the pitch, and with the added responsibility of continental football, depth will be crucial. Several players are now at a crossroads — either seize the opportunity to stake their claim, or risk being left behind.

Dillon Solomons

The versatile fullback has already reminded Chiefs supporters of his quality. Solomons earned the Man of the Match award in his first start of the season against Kabuscorp, stepping in for the absent Thabiso Monyane.

While Monyane has made the right-back role his own, Solomons’ energy and defensive reliability offer an alternative that the technical team may be forced to lean on in the congested schedule.

Nkanyiso Shinga

One of the most intriguing new arrivals, Shinga has returned from Portugal eager to reignite his career at home. The South African-born fullback has yet to feature but has been named on the bench twice.

With the constant rotation at Naturena, he could soon be given a proper chance to impress. His ability to operate on either flank may be his ticket to regular involvement.

Lebogang Maboe

A big-name signing from Mamelodi Sundowns, Maboe arrived nursing an injury that has delayed his debut. From the sidelines, he has watched Chiefs’ midfield rotate constantly without a consistent three-man unit emerging.

Once fit, Maboe will sense a golden opportunity. His experience, versatility, and tactical awareness could give Chiefs the stability they’ve lacked in the engine room.

Khanyisa Mayo

Mayo couldn’t have asked for a better debut, scoring against Gallants in his first game back in South Africa. But earning a permanent place will be another battle altogether.

Chiefs currently have a pool of five strikers vying for minutes, including Wandile Duba, Ashley du Preez, Flavio da Silva, and Ranga Chivaviro. Mayo’s sharp finishing and pace give him an edge, but consistency will decide whether he becomes Amakhosi’s leading man.

Nkosingiphile Ngcobo

The midfielder has long been seen as a player with enormous potential, but consistency remains his hurdle. Ngcobo has been in and out of the team this season despite showing signs of maturity and improved game management.

In a squad still searching for identity, Ngcobo has the chance to establish himself as a mainstay once the core of the team is settled. Chiefs fans will hope his time has finally arrived.

With so much competition across the squad, every performance in the coming weeks will count. Chiefs’ domestic and continental ambitions hinge not only on the established names, but also on these players turning potential into impact.