Kaizer Chiefs appear to be entering another major phase of squad restructuring, with Thabo Cele’s departure now officially confirmed. The midfielder and Amakhosi agreed to a mutual termination on 7 September, bringing an end to his 18-month spell at the club. Chiefs said the decision forms part of their efforts to reshape the squad for the 2026/27 campaign.
According to the latest reports surrounding the club, the changes at Naturena may not be finished yet. Kaizer Motaung Jr. has reportedly indicated to the media that Chiefs still have work to do, with speculation suggesting that as many as three more players could follow Cele through the exit door. However, the identities of those players have not been officially confirmed by the club, meaning supporters will have to wait for concrete announcements.
Cele’s departure is already one of the biggest talking points among Amakhosi supporters. The 29-year-old joined Chiefs in January 2025 and made 36 appearances across domestic and CAF competitions, while also helping the club win the Nedbank Cup. His contract was ultimately terminated by mutual agreement after he fell outside new coach Fernando da Cruz’s plans.
The potential exits would underline just how serious the rebuilding process has become at Naturena. Chiefs have already seen several players leave during the current transfer window, while new additions have also arrived as Da Cruz looks to create a squad suited to his footballing philosophy. The club’s objective appears to be creating a more competitive team capable of challenging for major honours.
Mduduzi Shabalala is now one of the names being discussed by supporters amid the growing speculation. His social-media activity has previously fuelled questions about his future, including reports that he removed Kaizer Chiefs-related content from his Instagram account. However, that alone does not confirm that the talented attacker is leaving the club. In August, reports stated that Shabalala had returned to the senior squad after a fitness spell, while earlier reports linked the social-media changes to speculation surrounding his future.
If three more departures are indeed being considered, Chiefs supporters will be watching the situation closely. The club has already shown that reputations will not necessarily protect players during this rebuild, with established names making way for a new-look squad. For now, the identities of the next possible departures remain a matter of speculation, and official confirmation will be crucial before any player can be considered on his way out.
With the new season underway, the pressure is now on Kaizer Chiefs’ management and technical team to ensure that the squad overhaul produces results on the pitch. Cele’s exit may have closed one chapter, but if the latest reports are accurate, Amakhosi could still have another three big decisions to make.
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