Thabo Cele’s Kaizer Chiefs Exit Linked to Fernando Da Cruz Decision – Here’s What He Had to Say to Amakhosi Fans
Thabo Cele’s time at Kaizer Chiefs has officially come to an end after the midfielder and the club agreed to terminate his contract by mutual agreement. The decision comes after new head coach Fernando Da Cruz made it clear that Cele was not part of his plans for the 2026/27 season.
Cele arrived at Naturena in January 2025 and quickly became an important player for the club, helping Amakhosi end their long trophy drought by winning the Nedbank Cup. However, his situation changed after Da Cruz took charge.
Da Cruz did not see Cele in his plans
Da Cruz was publicly asked about Cele’s future in July and gave a straightforward answer.
The Chiefs coach explained that there were several players competing for positions in midfield and that he preferred different player profiles, meaning Cele would not be part of his plans for the new campaign.
Cele subsequently found himself outside the first-team setup and was linked with an exit from Naturena. Reports later indicated that he had been training away from the senior squad while discussions over his future continued.
While there has been speculation about tension between the player and the coach, the confirmed information is that Da Cruz did not select Cele as part of his plans, rather than evidence that Cele personally had a falling-out with the coach.
Cele’s emotional message to Kaizer Chiefs fans
Following his departure, Cele made it clear that his feelings towards Kaizer Chiefs had not changed despite the difficult circumstances surrounding his exit.
The midfielder thanked the club, coaches, staff and supporters for the role they played during his time at Naturena. He described the people at the club as having become like family and said leaving was not the way he wanted his Chiefs chapter to end.
Cele also made a strong promise to the Amakhosi faithful: leaving the club would not mean leaving behind his love for Kaizer Chiefs.
He expressed his gratitude for the support he received and said that he would continue to support the club even though he would no longer be wearing the famous gold and black jersey.
His message to the supporters was ultimately one of appreciation rather than bitterness.
A difficult ending for Cele
Cele leaves Chiefs having made 36 appearances across domestic and CAF competitions, while also lifting the Nedbank Cup during his time at the club.
His departure marks a surprising ending to a spell that initially promised plenty. For many Chiefs supporters, Cele will be remembered for his contribution to the club’s return to silverware.
Now, the midfielder will look for a new opportunity, while Da Cruz continues rebuilding the Chiefs squad according to his preferred style and player profiles.
For Cele, the message is clear: the chapter at Naturena may be over, but his connection with the Amakhosi family remains. 💛🖤
[Kaizer Chiefs’ official announcement on Thabo Cele
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