Squad depth and stability driving Chiefs’ rejuvenation

Kaizer Chiefs have started the new season with intent, hitting the ground running as they look to iron out some of the flaws in their game. Just as important to their campaign will be the return to playing all their home matches at a single venue (FNB Stadium), something that could make a decisive difference.

Amakhosi are three wins from three and look like a side rejuvenated, determined to move beyond the struggles of recent years.

Last season proved challenging for the Glamour Boys, with inconsistency and a lack of confidence holding them back. Contributing to that instability was the splitting of their home fixtures between the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, FNB Stadium, and Moses Mabhida Stadium.

While they enjoy a large following at each of those venues, a settled home ground brings a sense of belonging and makes it tougher for opponents, who often dread a difficult trip to a single, intimidating base.

The benefits of consistency have been evident across the league. Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns have long capitalised on strong home fortresses, while Magesi FC turned Seshego Stadium into a difficult place to visit in the latter stages of last season.

Midfielder Thabo Cele has been one of Chiefs’ standout performers so far, playing a key role in securing two home wins. For him, home advantage will carry significant weight this season.

“It’s important for a team like us to win our home matches,” Cele said.

“It’s also about improving attendance at the stadium, because FNB is huge. With good results, the atmosphere will be even better, and we want our opponents to feel that in our home games—it’s crucial.”

Cele also praised recent improvements made to the pitch at FNB.

“It’s better now, especially when you pass the ball on the ground. It feels smooth, with a mix of sand and artificial grass. They’re trying to create a flat, consistent surface, and it makes a real difference.”

Chiefs have been busy strengthening their squad, adding Asanele Velebayi, Luke Baartman, and Etiosa Ighodaro, while earlier arrivals Siphesihle Ndlovu and Thabiso Monyane have already made their presence felt. 

The club also confirmed that internationals Ethan Chislett and striker Flavio Silva are available for selection, providing further depth for coach Nasreddine Nabi.

In midfield, competition has been particularly fierce, but Cele has wasted no time in reminding everyone of his quality. The 28-year-old delivered a man-of-the-match performance in Wednesday’s 1-0 win over Richards Bay FC, echoing the impact he made when he first arrived at Naturena in last season’s January transfer window.

He believes the level of competition within the squad will be crucial for Amakhosi to maintain their early momentum.

“In every position, it’s important to have competition,” he continued.

“Competition makes players better, and when you look at our schedule, we have a lot of games. That’s why squad depth is so important in every role.

“In midfield especially, you can see the depth and the competition, which is healthy for the team. With so many tournaments to play in, we want to compete for everything and win matches, so having that depth is vital.”