- As the transfer window heats up, Kaizer Chiefs are scrambling to secure a striker, but their efforts keep hitting roadblocks.
- Investigating the reasons behind some high-profile rejections from players who passed up the chance to join the iconic Soweto club.
- From domestic rivals to overseas talents, we take a closer look at the forwards who turned down the opportunity to suit up for Chiefs.
The Kaizer Chiefs, one of South Africa's most storied football clubs, are finding themselves in a tough spot as they gear up for the 2024/2025 season. Despite their best efforts, the PSL giants have faced a string of rejections from potential strikers, leaving them in need of firepower up front.
With new coach Nasreddine Nabi already welcoming seven new additions to the squad, the pressure is on to finalize a striker before the transfer deadline on Friday, September 20, 2024. But why are so many players saying no to the chance to play for Chiefs? Let’s dive into the details.
While Chiefs have made numerous overtures to bolster their attacking lineup, several top talents have opted to sign elsewhere. Here's a closer look at the players who decided to pass on the chance to join the Soweto giants.
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Why Nasreddine Nabi Needs a Striker
Last season was a challenging one for Kaizer Chiefs, as the club finished in tenth place in the PSL standings. A glaring issue was their lack of consistency in front of goal, which made finding a reliable striker a top priority for the upcoming campaign. With the club's reputation for attacking flair and a passionate fanbase, securing the right player could be a game-changer for Nabi and his squad.
Fiston Mayele: The Congolese Connection
Fiston Mayele, a Congolese forward with a proven track record, was once considered a strong candidate to boost Chiefs' attack. Having played under Nabi at Young Africans, the connection seemed promising. However, Mayele opted to remain with his current club, Pyramids FC in Egypt, where he continues to thrive. Despite an initial offer of R14 million for the 30-year-old striker, who has also represented DR Congo, the deal never materialized.
Ashley Cupido: The Local Option
Former Cape Town Spurs striker Ashley Cupido was another name linked to the Soweto giants after his club's relegation from the PSL last season. Both Chiefs and their arch-rivals, Orlando Pirates, expressed interest in signing the talented forward. Ultimately, Cupido chose to sign with Stellenbosch FC, expressing his excitement about becoming a key player for the club. His decision highlights the growing appeal of smaller clubs in South Africa's football landscape.
Khanyisa Mayo: The Algerian Adventure
Khanyisa Mayo, a standout performer for Cape Town City last season, was another target for Kaizer Chiefs. According to the club's sporting director, Kaizer Motaung Junior, negotiations were progressing smoothly, with Chiefs even meeting the asking price for the player. However, Mayo ultimately decided to pursue a move to CR Belouizdad in Algeria, where he hopes to further his international career. This development underscores the increasing allure of opportunities abroad for South African players.
Iqraam Rayners: The Sundowns Switch
Iqraam Rayners, Stellenbosch FC's top scorer last season, was one of the most sought-after strikers in the PSL. While he was linked with a move to Chiefs, Rayners eventually chose to join Mamelodi Sundowns, the reigning PSL champions. This decision not only solidified Sundowns' dominance but also demonstrated the fierce competition within South African football for top talent.
Elias Mokwana: The Tunisian Temptation
Elias Mokwana, who earned a call-up to the Bafana Bafana squad following a standout season with Sekhukhune United, was another player on Chiefs' radar. Despite persistent rumors suggesting a deal was imminent, Mokwana opted to take his career overseas by signing with Esperance of Tunisia. His choice reflects the growing trend of South African players seeking new challenges abroad.
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Nasreddine Nabi Urges Fans to Be Realistic
In a recent statement, new Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi called on fans to temper their expectations for the upcoming season. While the Tunisian tactician acknowledges the club's rich history and passionate supporters, he emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation rather than chasing instant success. Nabi reminded fans that last season's tenth-place finish in the PSL highlights the work that needs to be done. With this in mind, the club remains focused on assembling a competitive squad capable of delivering results over time.
