Da Cruz Faces Big No.10 Decision at Kaizer Chiefs

Da Cruz Faces Big No.10 Decision at Kaizer Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz could face one of his biggest selection decisions as he considers who is best suited to carry the iconic No.10 role at Naturena.

Three attacking options have emerged in the conversation — Langelihle Phili, Khanyisa Mayo and Mfundo Vilakazi — each offering something different to Da Cruz’s attacking system.

Phili arrives at Chiefs after an outstanding campaign with Stellenbosch FC, where he scored nine goals and collected both the club’s Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards. The 21-year-old is naturally an attacking player who can operate from the wings and provide creativity in the final third.

Mayo, meanwhile, brings experience, physicality and a proven eye for goal. Chiefs recently completed his permanent signing from CR Belouizdad after his loan spell, making him an important part of Da Cruz’s attacking plans for the new campaign.

Then there is Mfundo Vilakazi, the young academy product who has increasingly attracted attention at Naturena. Da Cruz has already spoken positively about his versatility, describing Vilakazi as a player capable of operating as a winger, forward or striker.

That versatility could give Vilakazi an advantage if Da Cruz wants his No.10 to move freely between midfield and attack.

The decision, however, will not simply be about choosing the biggest name. The No.10 position demands creativity, movement, intelligence and the ability to unlock defensive lines — qualities that all three players possess in different ways.

For Phili, it could be an opportunity to take his impressive Stellenbosch form to another level. For Mayo, the role could allow him to become even more influential in attack. And for Vilakazi, wearing the iconic number could represent another major step in his development at Chiefs.

With Da Cruz building his own team and philosophy, the final decision could reveal exactly how he sees the future of Kaizer Chiefs’ attack.

One question remains: who will Da Cruz trust with the iconic No.10 shirt — Phili, Mayo or Vilakazi?