Kaizer Chiefs have begun the 2026-27 campaign with a win, but the club still faces two significant issues as the new manager assesses his squad.
The first concerns the options at left-back, an area supporters believe requires strengthening. Bradley Cross, Nkanyiso Shinga and Paseka Mako are the current choices, yet discussion on social media has focused on whether Kaizer Chiefs need to improve their depth in that position.
The question for the club is straightforward: if those three players are not considered sufficient, who are the realistic alternatives?
The left-back situation is not the only unresolved matter facing the new manager. Kaizer Chiefs must also decide what to do about Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, a popular player whose recent seasons have been disrupted by injuries.
Ngcobo has endured considerable misfortune with fitness problems during the past few campaigns. Despite that record, it appears the club is preparing a deal for the talented 26-year-old.
The decision will inevitably raise questions over whether his previous injury history should influence the club’s plans. Ngcobo remains a fan favourite, but Kaizer Chiefs must weigh that support against his limited availability in recent seasons.
Msimango’s future in doubt
There is also uncertainty surrounding Given Msimango, who appears likely to leave Kaizer Chiefs.
The 29-year-old central defender was initially an important part of the team after joining the club in 2023. His position, however, has changed significantly. The former TS Galaxy player has become a fringe figure, with Inacio Miguel and even the now-departed Aden McCarthy moving ahead of him in the defensive hierarchy.
Msimango’s progress has also been affected by injuries. He played only 10 league matches last season and made just eight Betway Premiership appearances in the campaign before that.
His first season at the club was considerably more productive. He made 26 appearances in 2023-24, a figure which underlines how his role and influence have declined since then.
Kaizer Chiefs therefore begin the new campaign with the benefit of an early victory, but important questions remain. The club must consider whether its left-back options are strong enough, determine whether Ngcobo’s injury record justifies a new deal and resolve Msimango’s future.
Those decisions will help shape the squad available to the new manager and could prove important if Kaizer Chiefs are to mount a credible title challenge this season.
What do you think? Can Kaizer Chiefs compete seriously for the title this season? Share your views in the comments.
WIN R5 000: Take The South African’s Winter Reader Survey.
