Kaizer Chiefs are taking decisive steps to address the shortcomings of last season, beginning with the release of several players whose contracts are expiring this month.
Among those not offered new contracts are full-back Sifiso Hlanti, midfielder Keagan Dolly, and Siyethemba Sithebe, marking a significant shift in the team's strategy as they aim to rebuild and return to competitive form.
Hlanti, who had joined Chiefs in 2021, has been a versatile and reliable presence for the club. Despite the frequent coaching changes during his tenure, Hlanti adapted well, playing reliably under Stuart Baxter, Arthur Zwane, Molefi Ntseki, and interim coach Cavin Johnson.
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Over his time with Amakhosi, Hlanti made 51 PSL appearances. However, his stint at the club did not yield silverware, a point of disappointment for both the player and fans.
The handling of Hlanti's departure has come under scrutiny, particularly from his agent, Sizwe Ntshangase. In an interview with Sports Night Amplified with Andile, Ntshangase expressed frustration with the club's communication regarding Hlanti's future.
"We did engage the club to try to find out where they are headed with Hlanti and what their thinking is, but we were not getting a direct response," Ntshangase told Sports Night Amplified with Andile.
"The team told Hlanti that he served them well this season in the last week of the games, but they said they will have to wait for the incoming coach to come assess him and make a decision."
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However, according to Ntshangase, that assessment never took place.
"Chiefs didn't engage with me about renewing Hlanti's contract, but they met with him directly. Chiefs said the new coach would assess Hlanti.
"But he didn't even train and be seen by any member of the technical team. Then Chiefs called him this week to say that his contract will not be renewed," the agent added.
As for Hlanti's future, while no specific plans have been announced yet, his experience and skill set are likely to make him an attractive option for other clubs, both domestically and potentially abroad.
Chiefs' decision to release Hlanti and others signify a period of transition for the club. While the move has stirred debate regarding its execution, it underscores the club's intent to reshape its squad dynamics and strategy under new leadership.
