Kaizer Chiefs strongest XI with new signings this season

Kaizer Chiefs will open their 2025/26 Betway Premiership season against Stellenbosch on 10 August.

Having returned from their pre-season in the Netherlands, Amakhosi have just over two weeks to prepare for the big clash. Unfortunately for them, they won’t feature in the MTN8 competition after failing to finish in the top 8 last season.

This weekend, they will play Asante Kotoko of Ghana in the Toyota Cup in Durban, where supporters will see new players in action for the first time on South African soil.

Here is how Kaizer Chiefs can line up this season

Goalkeeper:

Brandon Petersen

The experienced keeper appears to be Nabi’s first-choice keeper this season. His leadership has been vital, especially in the final of the Nedbank Cup, where Amakhosi were victorious.

Defenders:

Reeve Frosler (RB)

The experienced defender is more likely to be Kaizer Chiefs’ first choice as opposed to new signing Thabiso Monyane. Dillan Solomons could also be used as a sub rather than a starter.

Miguel Inacio (CB)

Miguel is set to be the new Amakhosi captain with the departure of Yusuf Maart. He has looked solid in big games, but his disciplinary record has to improve. On his day, the Angolan international is one of the best defenders in the PSL.

Aden McCarthy (CB)

The young centre-back who impressed during pre-season in the Netherlands. He has become a new favourite and expect him to bench Given Msimango when in the opening matches. With regular centre-back Rushwin Dortley still not fit, McCarthy will no doubt be Miguel’s defensive partner.

Bradley Cross (LB)

Bradley Cross is more likely to start ahead of Nkanyiso Shinga at left-back. Shinga has looked vulnerable and it’s more likely that Nasreddine Nabi will opt for Cross in the opening matches. Paseka Mako could be an option when he recovers from injury.

Midfielders:

Thabo Cele (CM)

Thabo Cele is no doubt Kaizer Chiefs’ best player. Since his arrival, he had looked like the leader the club needs. During pre-season, he was far the best player and looks like he is getting more comfortable in the midfield role alongside Sibongiseni Mthethwa.

Nkosingiphile Ngcobo (AM)

Ngcobo has excelled this pre-season and looks like a different player. If he can carry the form that he showed in Holland, he will be an asset for Amakhosi this season.

Siphesihle Ndlovu (DM)

He might be one of Kaizer Chiefs’ surprise signings. Ex-player Reneilwe Letsholonyane has praised the former SuperSport United midfielder, saying he is the kind of player who will fight for every ball and show commitment.

Forwards:

Makabi Lilepo (LW)

The Congolese attacker is one of the few standout players from last season. He will no doubt start most of Amakhosi’s matches but it remains to be seen if he will show the same explosiveness he showed in his first three months at the club.

Pule Mmodi (RW)

Mmodi has been hot and cold for Kaizer Chiefs and perhaps this could finally be his season where he impresses.

Flavio Silva (Str)

Nabi has always preferred to have a target man, hence he signed Silva. If the 29-year-old striker can find form early in the season, Amakhosi could play him upfront while Lilepo, Mmodi and Ngcobo provide.