Kaizer Chiefs news: Latest on Cross, Mako, Mayo and Frosler injuries

Kaizer Chiefs news: Latest on Cross, Mako, Mayo and Frosler injuries

Kaizer Chiefs have been dealt a major injury headache at the start of the 2026/27 season, with the defensive department particularly affected.

The Amakhosi have several players unavailable, forcing head coach Fernando Da Cruz to reshuffle his defence and find alternative solutions during the opening matches of the campaign.

Bradley Cross

There is some encouraging news regarding Bradley Cross. The left-back has been sidelined with an injury but has reportedly returned to training with the squad.

His return could be a major boost for Chiefs, considering the shortage of natural left-backs currently available. If his recovery continues without complications, Cross could be back in contention when the team returns to action next month.

Paseka Mako

Paseka Mako remains one of the longer-term absentees.

The defender fractured his forearm during Chiefs’ pre-season friendly against Al-Kholood in Spain. The club confirmed that he returned to South Africa for further medical treatment and assessment.

Mako is expected to spend several weeks on the sidelines, with reports indicating that his return could come around September.

Khanyisa Mayo

Khanyisa Mayo is another player currently unavailable after undergoing surgery for a hernia.

The striker missed the beginning of the campaign and is expected to return in September, providing Chiefs with another attacking option once he is fully fit.

Reeve Frosler

Reeve Frosler has added to Chiefs’ defensive problems after suffering a hamstring injury.

Frosler had been used as an option at left-back during the opening games, but his absence left Da Cruz with even fewer natural options in that position. The coach subsequently had to make tactical adjustments, including using players outside their usual roles.

Chiefs facing a defensive headache

The situation has become particularly difficult at left-back, with Frosler, Cross, Mako, Nkanyiso Shinga and youngster Kabelo Nkgwesa all unavailable at different points because of injuries.

Da Cruz acknowledged the extent of the problem, saying that all of Chiefs’ left-backs were injured following the latest setbacks.

Despite the injury crisis, Chiefs have made a positive start to the new season. The technical team will now be hoping that the injured players recover quickly, as the return of even a few defenders could significantly strengthen the squad.

For Amakhosi supporters, the biggest question is now which injured stars will be back first — and how soon can Chiefs get close to a full-strength squad?