Kaizer Chiefs FC coach spells out Thabo Cele’s future
Kaizer Chiefs FC head coach Fernando da Cruz has made it clear that Thabo Cele will not feature in his plans for the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.
The combative midfielder joined Chiefs from Russian side Fakel Voronezh at the start of 2025. Since then, he has played 15 games in his first six months, then added 21 appearances last season. He missed just four of those 36 matches combined.
Why Fernando da Cruz is moving on from Thabo Cele
Da Cruz cited squad depth as the main reason for Cele’s exit. “For Thabo Cele, there are a lot of players in his position,” the coach said. “So the preference is on other profiles. At the moment he is not in the plans.”
With Cele still under contract for another year, the club must now decide whether to loan him out or negotiate a mutual termination.
What Thabo Cele’s exit means for Kaizer Chiefs FC
Losing a player who started 36 of a possible 38 games over two seasons is a blow to squad continuity. Chiefs paid a transfer fee for Cele last winter, and his departure would leave a midfield gap unless a replacement arrives.
The club’s foreign-quota policy may also play a role. Da Cruz has hinted at shifting focus toward domestic profiles, which could limit Cele’s options to stay in South Africa.
Where Thabo Cele could land next
With his Chiefs contract running until mid-2027, Cele must find a new club quickly. His 2025/26 workload shows he can handle regular minutes, making him attractive to PSL rivals or clubs abroad.
Potential suitors include Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns or even a return to Europe. Chiefs will likely accept a loan deal to free up wages while keeping the door open for a future return.
